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A member of the herbal mint family, catnip (Nepeta Cataria) is a completely harmless treat for your cat. It is also a beautiful herb to grow in your garden or a patio pot.
Initially catnip produces a hyperactive
playful state in cats which can last from just a few minutes up to half an hour. After this
burst of excited activity, it acts as a calming sedative for many hours
afterward with most cats napping or lazing about peacefully.
The
chemical nepetalactone,
present in catnip stem and leaves, is what
affects cat behavior. The odor is much more attractive to cats when the plant parts
are damaged, so rough it up a bit or they may turn up their noses at the fresh
stuff.
About 30% to 60 % (depending on which source you read) of all cats exhibit no interest in
catnip. This is due to genetics. Lions and tigers also respond to catnip. They inherit the catnip craziness from
their parents.
Many cats that are responsive do not begin to react to catnip
until out of their kitten stage or until a few years old. So, if your offerings
have been greeted with an upturned disdainful nose, try again.
Don't use
catnip to
often or a resistance can build up to catnip's effects. Once a week I sprinkle it
across the kitchen floor where we all roll about and play before settling down
to a peaceful nap. For more information on growing catnip, its chemical
properties, and health uses for humans visit the following sites.
Pampered Cats Home
Page
Please Note- I
am not a VET. These pages are provided for informational purposes
only. If you have a sick cat, PLEASE contact your veterinarian!
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