15 Apr Second Chance: The Catnip Effect!
Since 1994, the Animal Resource Center and the Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been dedicated toserving animals in Southwestern Colorado. Adoption hours are every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The facility is located at 177 County Rd 10, Ridgway, CO. View shelter pets and services online at secondchancehumane.org.
View shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org
Donate here or mail to: PO Box 2096, Ridgway, CO, 81432.
Go here for more about Second Chance.
Ah, catnip: the wonder plant, nature’s gift to our feline friends. But what is it, really?
The good news for pet owners is that catnip is not addictive and, in almost all cases, completely harmless.
Catnip, Nepeta cataria, is an herb from the mint family that originally grew in Europe and Asia, but can now be found in North America as well. The leaves contain an essential oil, nepetalactone, which triggers a behavioral response in cats, and even people!
There are two main ways cats interact with catnip: sniffing and ingesting.
When cats smell catnip, nepetalactone stimulates receptors in their noses, triggering brain regions linked to emotion and behavior. So, sniffing catnip results in a brief, euphoria. Cats will often get “zoomies”, purr, rub on the catnip, or roll around. The effects are temporary and tend to last no more than 15 minutes.
When ingested, catnip tends to have the opposite effect. Cats usually become mellow and relaxed. Cats can’t truly overdose on catnip, but GI upset can happen from eating too much, and some cats’ stomachs are upset by the plant. If your cat has a bad reaction, opt for sprays or other methods.
Sensitivity to catnip is actually hereditary. Between 50% and 70% of cats carry the gene, but some are genetically predisposed not to respond to catnip at all. Kittens typically don’t respond until they’re 3–6 months old, when this sensitivity develops.
Catnip is a great enrichment activity that prevents boredom and provides mental stimulation for indoor cats. However, catnip is more than just fun – it can be a useful training tool.
Sprinkling dried catnip on scratchers can encourage a naughty kitty to use that instead of your furniture. It can soothe anxious cats during car trips or visits to the vet. It can even be a powerful motivator for the chunky feline who needs a little extra encouragement to get their steps in!
Cats aren’t the only ones who benefit from catnip!
For hundreds of years, humans have used it for its medicinal properties. Most commonly brewed in teas, it has sedative and calming effects. In high concentrations, it can even be used as a mosquito repellent, though it only lasts a couple of hours.
Catnip can be purchased dried or fresh, with fresh typically being more potent. You can even grow your own at home! Most veterinarians recommend avoiding concentrated catnip oils, as they can be too strong. A small pinch of dried catnip is usually plenty to start.
While humans may enjoy catnip tea, sweetened with lemon or honey, it’s best to offer cats catnip in its natural form (dried or fresh) rather than brewed.
As always, moderation is key. Then you can sit back and relax together while the catnip works its magic!
Taffy
Sweet Taffy is the animal who has been at the shelter the longest! She is such a gentle, loving girl who not only enjoys catnip, but also time with the people. Taffy is the perfect mix of affectionate and independent, making her a great companion for anyone. She gets along with other cats and people, and is 5-years-old.
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