CATNIP FAQS

what is catnip and why does my cat act so crazed when in contact with it?

Most cats, with the exception of some kittens and older cats, show some form of interest in catnip. 
Cats that do have a reaction may lick, sniff, rub and roll around in the loose catnip or, will do the same with a catnip toy, like our Big Fatty! We have been told of many kitties who just love to lick the Big Fatty catnip toy until it turns green!
The effects vary for each cat. Some owners say that their cat will race around the house, while others seem to be in a more loving and affectionate state.

is kittyweed safe?

KittyWeed® is 100% Organic & Kosher, Super Potent Catnip that is naturally grown and pesticide free. Even though your cat is somewhat "high" from the effects of catnip, there is no chance that your cat will eat too much as they know when they have had enough and usually take a catnap right after their romp with it because catnip is also a natural sedative! 
​However, you might still wonder if  there's something wrong with your kitty when you see him or her drooling and seemingly in a dazed and confused state.  But, rest assured, it’s just a chemical reaction to the harmless drug in the leaves called Nepetalactone  which will wear off in about 15 or 20 minutes.
After initial exposure their bodies will not accept the effects for another few hours. And, despite its drug-like effect, catnip is neither addictive nor harmful for cats. ​

YES, YOU CAN TRAIN A CAT! 

KittyWeed® catnip is a fun and rewarding treat for both pet and owner - and a great bonding opportunity, too.  As well, it can be used as a training tool to encourage your kitty to use the new scratching post or cozy cat bed you just purchased! Just sprinkle a bit of catnip on the post and in their bed.
Catnip builds confidence for some shy cats and can help take the cat's mind off of the stressful ride to the vet - or at least help to bring on a catnip snooze so he/she doesn't care anymore.
KittyWeed® catnip can also offer a happy distraction during cat-to-cat introductions and help the kitties associate positive experiences with meeting new cats, especially a new addition to the family!

DID YOU KNOW THAT CATNIP IS A NATURAL PEST REPELLENT?

According to some studies, catnip might be more effective at repelling insects than DEET (commonly found in insect repellents).  Take a few leaves of catnip, roll them around and press them onto the skin and these pests will stay away from you!
Plant catnip all around your garden.  This will help to deter other pests such as: flea beetles, aphids, Japanese beetles, squash bugs, as well as mice and rats!

WHAT ARE THE ORIGINS OF CATNIP?

​Native to Europe and Asia, catnip became naturalized in North America and Canada after being introduced by the colonists in the 1600's. The name Nepeta is believed to have come from the town of Nepete in Italy, and Cataria is thought to have come from the Latin word for cat.
Nepeta cataria is one of 250 species of mint and is also known by the following names: cataria, catmint, catnep, catrup, cat's healall, cat's-play, true catnip, cat's wort, catswort, catwort, chi hsueh tsao, field balm, garden nep, herba cataria, herba catti, nebada, nep.

​The fresh, as well as dried leaves of catnip may also be used to prepare a delicious and calming herbal tea.
Catnip tea has many benefits such as helping to treat insomnia and migraines. It is also a natural antacid plus, can help with other ailments such as diarrhea, muscle spasms, menstrual cramps and gas! Catnip tea contains vitamins A, B and C, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and sodium.  To make catnip tea:

• add three teaspoons of the leaves to one cup of boiling water;
• steep the tea for a few minutes.
• Or, combine dried catnip leaves with dried lemon balm and/or dried mint then, add to your preferred black tea.  
• Flavor with honey and/or lemon if you like. 

Super refreshing in the summer and warming and cozy in the winter!

Sensitivity to Nepetalactone is an inherited trait,
and it's not just house cats that can have a reaction.
Even big, wild felines like tigers can be susceptible to it!  

How about baking some catnip treats
for your special feline?
​Try our KittyWeed Tuna Crunchies recipe.
​Your kitty will purr with delight!

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