What Is Catnip Really Doing to Your Cat’s Brain?

Cats have funny reactions to catnip as some roll on the floor and others run around like they are wild. Catnip is no magic but just a natural herb which changes the cat's behaviour for a short period of time. When a cat smells catnip. it's brain switches to a different mode. Some cats get excited and others get calm instead. This change only lasts for a few minutes but makes the cat feel very good.


Catnip is a plant from the mint family and has a strong smell that attracts cats even from far away. The main part that affects cats is nepetalactone which is hidden compound in the plant leaves and stems.Once the smell of this compound touches the nerves of the cat's nose, these nerves send a message to the brain which in response releases happy hormones that makes the cat feel playful or excited. For most cats this feeling lasts around ten minutes.
Every cat reacts in its own way as some cats roll, jump or rub their face on the floor while others may meow or purr a lot. Some even take long naps afterward and all this happens because catnip affects the part of the brain that controls mood and behavior.
Catnip works through smell as when a cat detects the smell of it, the scent travels to the part of the brin which controls the emotions. Some cats even show hunting or chasing behaviour during this time. This works best for indoor cats as then they are able to release their natural energy.

Not every cat reacts to catnip. Some cats feel nothing at all. This is because the love for catnip is passed down by genes. If a cat’s parents did not respond to catnip then it might not either. Kittens younger than three months also usually do not respond yet.
Studies have proved that around half of all cats react to catnip. The rest show no change. So if the cat does not act excited then there is nothing wrong. It is simply not in its DNA to feel the pleasure from this plant. There are other herbs like silvervine or valerian root which work better on these cats instead of catnip.


Catnip is fun but also has real benefits for cats. It helps a lazy cat become more active and playful. It also helps nervous cats feel calm. A little catnip makes playtime more exciting and reduce stress.
Catnip should be used to make cats exercise more. It makes toys or scratching posts extra fun. Also use it to help the cat get used to a new space or bed. For cats that get anxious during travel, catnip helps them relax for a while.
When given in small amounts, catnip is good for the cat’s mental health. It is safe, natural and easy to find at any pet store.

Catnip is given to cats in many ways like by sprinkling dried catnip on a toy or scratching post. Some toys already come filled with catnip inside. Also use a catnip spray on their bed or blanket.
Never give too much catnip to a cat at once as this might lead to cats drooling or vomiting. Just a very small amount only 2 to 3 times a week is enough. Always watch out for any unusual behaviour of a cat. If a cat eats catnip and becomes sleeps, then there is no need to worry as it is a normal reaction.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do cats eat catnip or inhale it?Cats can both eat and smell catnip.
2. What do vets think of catnip?Cats see catnip as a safe substance but should be used wisely.
3. Do cats prefer fresh or dried catnip?Cats usually prefer dried catnip more over fresh catnips.