Why catnip makes cats crazy

When other cats eat catnip, the substance will elicit a more sedative response, causing these cats to mellow out, roll around, zone out, and rub themselves against objects.

The sedative mood will usually last about ten minutes, and after that, your cat will likely go right back to their normal self again.

If your cat does possess the gene, it will only come to fruition between months of age; a kitten any younger may show no signs, one way or the other. If your adult cat does not react to catnip, he or she may enjoy silver vine or a toy with valerian roots instead. So, why do cats go crazy over catnip? Cats enjoy the plant for many reasons, in addition to the euphoric feeling it causes.

When a cat has a positive response to catnip, the plant-based substance can reduce anxiety, act as a pain reliever, and help with aggression problems. Here are the top 5 reasons why your cat loves catnip! Since catnip relaxes cats when ingested, it can lower anxiety and reduce nervousness. The way catnip minimizes anxiety makes it a great tool for reducing anxiety caused by separation, changes in the environment, or trips to the vet. Cats have an extra scent organ known as the vomeronasal gland that can be found at the roof of their mouths.

This unique pathway allows the scents that cats smell with their noses to reach the brain. So, when cats smell catnip, the nepetalactone registers as happy pheromones, which make cats feel playful, merry, and affectionate. Catnip sometimes acts as a sedative. With most cats, it will produce a soothing sensation when ingested, allowing your cat to relax and enjoy the day.

It can be helpful for younger cats that tend to stay up all night meowing or trying to play. Genetics play a huge role in the way the brain responds to psychoactive substances. Cat behaviorists have compared the effects of catnip on cats to those of marijuana or LSD on humans. But as with those and many other psychoactive substances, the actual effects depend on the method of ingestion.

The strongest catnip effects occur when the nepetalactone is absorbed through the nasal tissue. Cats who sniff catnip will seem to lose control of their bodies.

Many cats also vocalize uncontrollably while under the influence of catnip. They meow, purr, growl and make strange, indescribable noises — often simultaneously! Some cats seem to prefer the taste of catnip to the smell of it. When ingested and absorbed through the stomach, catnip has the opposite effect that it has when smelled.

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By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Home Chemistry Biochemistry. Catnip has a well known effect on, its intoxicating highs are caused by nepetalactone, a type of chemical called a terpene.

Credit: John Innes Centre. Explore further. More information: Uncoupled activation and cyclization in catmint reductive terpenoid biosynthesis, Nature Chemical Biology DOI: Provided by John Innes Centre. This document is subject to copyright. Cupful amounts of catnip tea have been consumed without serious side effects.

It can cause headaches, vomiting, and a feeling of being ill. The only danger of your cat eating too much catnip is that they might get an upset stomach. Other than that, there is zero reason to worry if catnip is bad for cats. When under the influence, some cats roll around, salivate, and at times, fight with other cats.