Often called catnip, catnip has a euphoric effect on your beloved feline. But what is this herb and what happens when your cat rubs against it and purrs with pleasure?

Know the difference!

First, a clarification is necessary between the two. While both formulations are commonly used in Quebec, the distinction is more present in Europe, where catnip rather refers to young grass shoots such as oats, barley or wheat. It is recommended to improve your cat's digestion and promote the elimination of hairballs. It is particularly useful for indoor or apartment cats, who do not have the opportunity to chew other plants.

Moreover, this plant does not pose a danger to him, unlike many indoor plants which are toxic to him. It is easily recognizable by its appearance which resembles grass.

Catnip, catnip and catnip

As for catnip, also called catnip ( Nepeta cataria ) or Catnip , in English), is a plant related to mint. Other plants are also part of the family, including germander and valerian.

In another category, let us also mention matatabi (actinidia polygama), whose effect is even more powerful.

Spectacular effects!

Whether you call it catnip or cat grass, this plant secretes a substance from the terpene family, nepetalactone, which acts on the nervous system of some cats by triggering the production of pheromones. The effect is sometimes so spectacular that owners have the impression that their pet is drunk or drugged.

He can roll on his back, rub himself against the plant, chew on it. He only feels the effects for about ten minutes. However, not all cats are lucky enough to feel this pleasure, some are genetically insensitive to catnip. In addition, the effects are less in kittens up to 6-7 months and in older cats.

A plant with multiple benefits

Sprinkling catnip on your cat's scratching post, favorite toys, or offering a toy that contains catnip can cause the following behaviors:

• State of excitement
• He can become very affectionate, playful or aggressive
• Rubbing of the face and neck
• Rolls
• Races around the house
• Stomping
• Licking and chewing

Typically, you will first see him sniffing the grass and rubbing himself on the object that is receiving or containing the catnip. The effects of catnip are quick and can be surprising in their intensity!

Catnip is particularly useful for:

• Encouraging your pet to play
  This is a great way to stimulate a sedentary feline.
• Distract his attention from an object and encourage him to adopt better behavior
  Teach him to sharpen his claws on his scratching post rather than on your sofa, for example.
• Calm your cat and bring him more well-being
  After the excitement and activity caused by catnip, the animal is less stressed, therefore more relaxed.

How to get some?

Once your feline has tasted this pleasure, he would gladly ask for more if he could talk. Catnip is available in several forms and you can easily find it in specialty stores like Animo etc.

On the other hand, moderation is required. Because if catnip is not addictive, your cat could get used to it. So we don't offer it to him constantly. And if he has toys that contain it, we take them out occasionally to maintain his interest.

Did you know? You can grow it and offer it this treat throughout its life. Nothing could be simpler! Catnip is a perennial plant that is easy to grow and gives an excellent yield. It is sown in the spring in a sunny place and in well-drained soil. In addition to being able to offer your companion fresh catnip, you can dry it to transform it into bundles that will serve as toys or store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

At Animo etc, we care about the well-being of your cats. Food and health , accessories and training , you will find online or in store the essentials for a happy pet throughout its life. Enough to make it purr with pleasure!