Catnip Facts

CATNIP FAQS

So, yes, your cat is somewhat "high" from catnip but, 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 their romp with catnip 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 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.

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.

So, ever wondered what catnip actually is and why your cat acts 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.

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!

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

As well as entertaining your kitty, catnip has a variety of other uses. Until the 13th century, catnip was a very common herb in the kitchen gardens in England.
The catnip (or catmint) leaves were used
to rub meats prior to cooking them.

In addition, catnip leaves were also sliced finely and sprinkled on salads. So, if you have a patch of catnip growing in your garden, cut a few leaves and add them to your salads for some extra tastiness.
You can also add freshly chopped or even dried out catnip leaves to stews, soups
and sauces.

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

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!

Plus, 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!

Catnip can be a fun and rewarding treat for both pet and owner - and a great bonding opportunity, too. As well, catnip 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.

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!

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