Can cats eat catnip? If you’re a cat owner, then you’ve probably heard of catnip.
This herb is a favorite among cats, and it’s no wonder why! Catnip can produce some pretty interesting effects when cats consume it.
But can cats eat catnip? And if so, what are the benefits and are there any dangers that come with it?
With thorough research and the help of professionals and veterinarians, we have come up with all of the answers and put them together inside of this post.
Can Cats Eat Catnip?
Cats can eat catnip, although it’s not straight forward because the information can be a little confusing.
Pet Poison Helpline states that catnip is perfectly safe for cats to consume as it isn’t toxic. The ASPCA actually lists catnip as toxic to cats.
The reason for this based upon the actual catnip plant, and if a cat consumes too much, it can cause diarrhea and vomiting, due to the high levels of fiber which cats find difficult to digest.
The truth is, it is highly unlikely that a cat will eat enough to even make them sick in the first place. You’ll find that it is self-limiting and they will just know when to stop.
Catnap really works as a sedative, although it is not quite as powerful. So don’t be alarmed if your cat takes a long nap after consuming some.
How Does Catnip Works?
When a cat consumes catnip, it causes a reaction in their brain that is similar to the one caused by marijuana in humans.
The compound, nepetalactone, binds to receptors in the brain that are normally activated by serotonin. This produces an effect that is calming and euphoric for cats.
Cats usually roll around on the floor after consuming catnip, or they may start to purr or meow more than usual, and even drool.
Some cats even get sleepy after ingesting it. Don’t be alarmed by this, because this kind of behavior from a cat who consumes catnip is perfectly normal, and they are having a great time!
Catnip can be given as fresh leaves directly from the plant, or you can buy pre-packaged dried leaves at most pet stores.
Benefits Of Catnip ( Eating Vs Smelling)
Eating Catnip
In terms of food consumption, catnip provides no nutritional value at all for a cat. So it should never be used as a replacement for their regular meals.
As eating catnip acts like a sedative, the one benefit it will have is to help calm a cat down.
Smelling Catnip
- Calming Effect: Catnip is a natural herb that contains an active ingredient, nepetalactone, which interacts with a cat’s pheromones. This produces an effect that is calming and euphoric for cats which is great for anxiety issues.
- Attraction: You can use catnap on toys or furniture to attract your cat to using them. You can also use it inside of a cat carrier if you need to get your cat inside of there for visits to the vets.
The Dangers Of Catnip
Although catnip is fine for a cat to consume, it is not recommended to give it to them in large quantities.
This is because, like with anything else, too much of a good thing can be bad. When cats consume too much catnip they may vomit, have diarrhea or become hyperactive.
How To Give Catnip To A Cat
What Ways Can Cats Eat Catnip?
Cats generally consume catnip in three different ways:
- Dried: The best way to introduce catnip to a cat. You can easily get dried catnip from most pet stores, or online on places like Amazon.
- Liquid: In the form of sprays that help your cat to use certain toys or pieces of furniture.
- Fresh: Fresh is in the form of small, pre-grown catnip plants that are easy to maintain and the ability to regrow.
How Much Catnip Should I Give My Cat?
Too much of a good thing, can become a bad thing. It is advised to limit the use of catnip to around once every two or three weeks.
Common Questions
Can I put catnip in my cat’s food?
Catnip serves no purpose as a food additive because it provides no nutritional value, and the sedative effects are going to make your cat sleep. Therefore, there are no benefits to doing this.
How old should a cat be for catnip?
It’s best to use catnip on cats that are at least 6 months old. Catnip will not harm a kitten in any way, but they will not react to the effects of the substance until they reach 6-12 months when they are more sexually mature.
How long does catnip last in cats?
The effects of catnip usually last around five to fifteen minutes. After that, your cat will probably be tired and want to take a nap.
Can humans eat catnip
Catnip is generally safe for humans to consume without any serious side-effects, providing it is consumed in small amounts.
Humans can consume catnip in the form of tea with catnip tea bags which is believed to help soothe anxiety and insomnia.
Can Cats Eat Catnip Conclusion
So, can cats eat catnip? The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as just tossing your kitty a leaf.
There are different ways to give your cat the benefits of this herb, which we have outlined in this post.
Just be sure to keep an eye on your feline friend when she’s enjoying her new favorite treat. Catnip can be dangerous in high doses.
Does your cat eat catnip? let us know in the comments below.
