The allure of catnip

Have you every wondered what catnip is and why your cat loves catnip?

Catnip is a perennial herb and member of the mint family, originally from the Mediterranean but now grows naturally in North America. Your cat probably loves to rub it, roll on it, and goes a bit crazy for short periods of time after eating it. These affects usually last around 30 minutes, and then your cat will need a long nap. Catnip usually affects very old or very young cats less, and about 10-30% of cats don't respond to it at all.

Catnip's leaves active ingredient is nepetalactone, an oil released when the leaves are broken. Fresh catnip will have the most affect on your cat. You can grow your own in the yard or on a windowsill inside, and seeds can be purchased at most local nurseries. If you plan to grow it outside, it's best to contain the roots by planting it in a 5 gallon container, and then set the pot into the ground so the roots won't take over the entire area. If grown inside, keep it where your cat won't have access to it all of the time, as catnip should only be given in small quantities as a treat (a sprig of fresh, or the size of a quarter if dried). Limit feeding catnip to a couple times a week so your cat won't grow too used to the affects. Catnip is safe for your cat in small quantities. If you can't feed fresh catnip, you might want to buy organic catnip which can be purchased online or at some pet stores. It doesn't have as much oil as fresh, but is much better than regular dried catnip, which has the least amount of oil, but is also the least expensive. Catnip sprays are available which help attract cats to scratching posts etc.

Catnip is also used as a tea for humans to aid digestion, soothe heartburn, or as a natural sedative. It is useful as an insect repellent if rubbed on the skin, or by planting catnip around your yard.