Catnip toys for cats

Catnip is a perennial herbaceous plant of the genus Kotovnik of the Lamiaceae family. Despite its distribution throughout Europe, North America and other countries, North Africa is the real home of catnip. This plant contains up to 3% essential oil, which attracts cats with its strong specific smell (the main component is nepetalactone). This feature formed the basis of its name: catnip or catnip.  

But the excessive disposition of cats to this plant is far from its only value. Kotovnik is in demand in the production of medicines, food, confectionery and perfumery. Possessing a number of useful properties, including sedative, it has a beneficial effect not only on animals, but also on humans.

Effects of catnip on cats

Catnip acts on cats through the sense of smell. Feeling the smell of a favorite plant, the pet seems to fall into a state of euphoria. Catnip toys cats just love to lick and bite. At the same time, pets can begin to purr or meow, roll on the floor and squirm in every possible way. After about 10 minutes, the reaction passes, and the pet’s behavior becomes normal. The repeated effect is possible not earlier than two hours. 

It is believed that catnip for cats is about the same as our favorite chocolate. It stimulates the production of cat’s “hormones of happiness”, hence such an impressive reaction.

As for the effects on the body, catnip is completely harmless. On the contrary, it allows you to adjust the behavior of the pet. For overly active and stressed cats, mint has a calming effect, while overly phlegmatic pets, on the contrary, become more active and playful under its influence. In addition, getting into the body of a cat (through edible toys and treats), this plant improves digestion and normalizes appetite.

Do all cats love catnip?

Not all cats react to catnip, and if your neighbor’s cat is crazy about a mint toy, then your cat may not appreciate the new acquisition at all. As practice shows, only 70% of cats are susceptible to catnip, while others are not at all interested in it. Kittens and teenagers also remain indifferent to catnip. Usually the plant begins to act on pets at the age of 4-6 months.

Catnip toys

Modern pet stores offer a wide range of cat toys with catnip. Some models are edible, others are filled with a plant from the inside (for example, fur mice with catnip). In addition, many models of scratching posts are impregnated with catnip: this allows you to quickly accustom your pet to grind off claws in the right place.

When choosing toys, pay great attention to their material and safety level. Keep in mind that catnip toys will be tasted and licked by your pet, and you need to be sure that they are completely safe.

Entertaining games for your four-legged friends!