Is Catnip Toxic to Cats

Introduction

Cats enjoy playing with catnip, and it seems always to put them in a tranquil state. This herb is related to the mint family, and cats love to smell, lick and sometimes eat it. Cat owners have often wondered if catnip is toxic to their pets. In this article, we examine whether catnip is safe or not for cats.

Catnip Background

Catnip (Nepeta Cataria) is a herb native to Asia and Europe. It has green triangular-shaped leaves, pale-colored flowers, and a unique scent that cats love. The herb contains nepetalactone, a chemical compound similar to valerianic acid, that triggers a response in a cat's central nervous system.

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

When cats smell or eat catnip, the nepetalactone in the catnip enters the cat's nasal passages and binds to their olfactory receptors. This triggers a series of reactions in the cat's brain that can cause various responses, such as:

• Excitement and playful behavior
• Rolling around on the floor
• Licking and chewing
• Calmness and relaxation

Catnip also has other benefits for cats, such as:

• Aiding digestion
• Reducing stress
• Promoting sleep

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Yes, catnip is safe for cats. Catnip is non-toxic to cats and does not cause them any adverse health effects. Cats can safely consume catnip, and it does not cause addiction or dependence. Catnip has been in use as an herbal remedy for centuries, and it has shown no significant negative effects on animals or humans.

How Much Catnip is Safe for Cats?

While catnip is not toxic to cats, it is essential to keep the amount given within a reasonable limit. Too much catnip can cause an excessive reaction that can cause a cat to become agitated or irritated. The recommended amount of catnip to give your cat is usually a pinch or two. If your cat has never had catnip before, it is best to start with a small amount to gauge its reaction to the herb. If your cat shows no interest in catnip, there is no need to worry as not all cats respond to catnip.

What are the Risks of Catnip to Cats?

While catnip is safe to feed to cats, there are other animal species that may develop a toxic reaction when exposed to the herb. For instance, cats that share their homes with rabbits or hamsters should avoid giving them catnip treats. Rabbits, hamsters, and other small animals may develop symptoms of toxicity if they ingest too much nepetalactone. It is also noteworthy that kittens under the age of six months may not have a reaction to catnip. As kittens age, they tend to show more interest in catnip, and most cats tend to outgrow their interest in catnip after five to fifteen minutes.

Catnip and Illness

Sometimes, catnip plants and products may contain pesticides that are toxic to cats. These pesticides could cause severe illnesses in cats, including anemia, organ damage, and seizures. It is essential to check the ingredients of catnip products before purchasing them and to always go for organic catnip products. If you notice any adverse reactions in your cat after giving them catnip or catnip products, discontinue use and seek veterinary assistance. Signs of toxicity in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, muscle weakness, trembling, and seizures.

Conclusion

Catnip is a safe herb for cats that can help them relieve stress and anxiety, boost their mood, and improve their digestion. However, it is essential to keep the amount of catnip given to cats within a reasonable limit and to avoid giving it to small animals such as rabbits and hamsters. If your cat has never had catnip before, start with a pinch or two and monitor their reaction before increasing the amount over time. Lastly, always ensure that you purchase organic catnip products to prevent poisoning your cat with pesticides, and if your cat shows any sign of distress after consuming catnip, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Sources

• https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/catnip
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569625/
• https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/catnip-what-it-and-why-do-cats-love-it
• https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/catnip-for-cats/