Is It Normal for Cats to Go Crazy After Inhaling Catnip

1. Many pet owners often confuse cat grass with catnip, but these are actually two entirely different plants. Catnip is a plant that can induce a type of hallucinogenic effect in cats. On the other hand, cat grass is a common type of plant, such as wheat grass, barley grass, and oat grass, which is used to aid cats in eliminating hairballs. Catnip features light green leaves and can produce flowers. Despite its name, it is not related to mint. The catnip family consists of over two hundred and fifty species, with the catnip (Nepeta cataria and other members of the genus Nepeta) being one of them. For humans, catnip is a common herb known for its therapeutic properties like dispelling windheat, promoting blood vessel dilation, and its antiinflammatory and hemostatic effects, but it does not cause excitement.

2. Cats experience a sense of excitement after inhaling catnip, primarily due to a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which is a volatile oil found in catnip leaves. Nepetalactone stimulates the cat's brain, causing a reaction when the scent is detected. This triggers a series of behaviors in cats that are often hard to describe, such as sniffing around, licking, rubbing, rolling on the ground, and drooling.

3. Catnip itself is not harmful to cats and does not lead to addiction. In fact, it can offer several benefits, including lifting the cat's mood, reducing stress, aiding digestion, enriching the environment, and guiding behavior. However, it is important not to let cats inhale large amounts of catnip for extended periods, as too much of a good thing can be detrimental.

4. There are certain situations where cats should avoid inhaling catnip. For instance, cats with gastrointestinal disorders, heart conditions, or epilepsy may experience worsened symptoms upon exposure. Pregnant cats should also avoid catnip, as it can cause emotional instability in the mother and may stimulate the uterus. Similarly, kittens whose nervous systems are not fully developed should not be exposed to catnip.

If your cat shows no interest in catnip, it might be due to genetic factors or simply being too young. The effects of catnip on cats typically last between five to fifteen minutes. Should you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.