Why cats love valerian: how it affects the nervous system and the dangers of its use

The word valerian usually evokes two associations: a sedative and an inadequate cat. Everyone once saw a cat going crazy after a few drops of valerian, on this occasion there is even a saying “like valerian for cats” or something similar.

Why do cats love valerian? Do all cats react this way to valerian and is it harmless for them? Surely this question was of interest to many, so let’s reveal the essence of the action of this cat drug.

Valerian effect – man and cat

Valerian tablets or tincture of alcohol for a person is the most harmless and gentle sedative. Very often, valerian is taken under severe stress, it relieves stress well. It happens that valerian is the only remedy for pain relief in the heart area for those people who are contraindicated in drugs such as Corvalol.

The cat, smelling valerian, which you could inadvertently spill, falls into a state similar to euphoria. Valerian contains essential oils that are very aggressive to the cat’s nervous system.

By the way, valerian has a calming effect on dogs.

Why do cats go crazy with valerian?

One of the main substances in the composition of valerian, which so excite the nervous system of cats, is actinidin. It affects not only pets, but all representatives of the cat family. There are two theories about why felines are so excited about valerian:

• the aroma of this herb reminds cats of the smell of cat pheromones during estrus, which is why valerian has a particularly strong effect on cats. Studies have shown that immature kittens and neutered cats are indifferent to this smell. Cats also perceive this aroma like cats, but this effect is much weaker;
• Valerian for cats is a strong narcotic. This confirms the corresponding behavior of the cat who tasted the “sedative”. In nature, cats look for valerian root to relieve pain. You can draw a parallel with coca leaves, which have an analgesic effect, while being a strong drug.

In both cases, the cat really experiences very sharp pleasant sensations, but what is the price of such ecstasy?

Amuse the cat – benefit or harm?

Many people think that valerian can be a great way to please your cat. And from time to time they “spoil” their pet, watching his reaction. It seems to be fun for both the owners and the cat, but what is really happening?

Few people thought about whether this euphoria would harm the cat’s body. These concerns are well founded. Here are the facts:

• the tablet form does not work on cats, so experimenters give their pets an alcoholic form of valerian. But even a little alcohol can simply poison the animal such a small weight. And if you do this “high” procedure systematically, then serious irreversible liver problems are just around the corner;
• valerian is a strong drug for a cat with all the consequences that follow. The cat falls into a state of drug intoxication, again and again licking the place where the coveted extract is spilled. Thereafter, state of euphoria is replaced by drowsiness, and in cases of high doses – deep sleep or even death. It is very similar to how a drug addict walks away from the next dose.

It is easy to conclude that only a cruel person can treat a cat with valerian, knowing their real effect. A cat poisoned with alcohol and narcotic substances of valerian tincture suffers from a kind of hangover. The simple fact that she can’t tell you how bad she isdoes not mean that it is not.

Like any other drug, valerian after several sessions of “ecstasy” will be addictive. And your furry friend will experience withdrawal symptoms or simply withdrawal.

How to check the effect of valerian?

You can check if valerian is working for your pet by buying an alcohol tincture and smearing it on the floor, for example. A cat or cat affected by valerian will roll on the floor, purr furiously and rub against the owner’s legs. Something similar can be contemplated in the days of March, but only to a much lesser extent.

A small amount of valerian does not harm the cat and will not be addictive. Most importantly, do not practice this for fun.

What is good and what is bad?

It’s good that a large percentage of smart cats run away as soon as they smell alcohol. This protects them from harmful treats. In addition, not all cats react to valerian extract. A considerable percentage of them are simply indifferent to valerian and will not show any interest in it. But, even if your cat or cat is one of those individuals for whom valerian is desirable, is it really worth the risk? For the sake of the momentary pleasure of the cat and the joy of eyewitnesses, it is not worth endangering the health of the animal.

If you accidentally spilled valerian on the floor, then you should not worry too much. A small dose, of course, will not hurt, but if you give more than the norm or frequent the cat’s holiday, then the damage can be irreparable.

Just think, no one gives their child a dose of a drug to amuse him. A good mom won’t even give you an extra candy, let alone something like that.