Why do cats like valerian so much and is it dangerous

Even in the days of Ancient Greece, it was known about the healing properties of valerian officinalis. It has a calming effect on the nervous system, helps with insomnia, and normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Is it useful for pets – in this article.

Valerian acts differently on cats, and in everyday life it has the name “cat root” or “meow”. In small doses, valerian essential oils are not dangerous, but can be addictive in cats. In large doses, valerian can be fatal to cats.

Why cats love valerian and how valerian affects them

Cats treat valerian extract simply enchantingly: they meow, purr, roll on the floor, express passionate tenderness at the feet of the owner. The reason is that valerian essential oils strongly excite the cat’s nervous system, a hormonal surge occurs, and cats experience a feeling of euphoria.

There are several opinions about the true reasons for such a reaction to valerian. The most common is a fragrance that resembles the smell of pheromones and causes an irresistible desire to mate. Another explanation is that valerian is a natural remedy with which wild individuals treat ailments by themselves looking for the root of the plant. However, not all cats show such an acute reaction to valerian, there are those who are absolutely calm about this smell.

Is it possible to give cats valerian

Veterinary experts are sure: for fun, even in small doses, this cannot be done. Valerian to calm the cat does not help. Sometimes veterinarians prescribe valerian to pets as an antidepressant. But it is advisable to use this medicine as consciously as possible and only in case of urgent need.

Can cats take valerian tablets?

It may seem that tablets are less dangerous than tincture, due to the minimum content of alcohol in their composition. But it’s not. In addition to valerian, the tablets contain synthetic substances that are much more harmful than herbal extract. They can lead to allergies and severe poisoning.

If the pet nevertheless tried valerian and immediately fell asleep after a quick effect of euphoria, you must immediately take it to the veterinary clinic and consult with a specialist.

How much valerian can a cat

Symptoms of overdose are manifested in each animal in its own way, and the dose may be different. So this question is completely individual. Valerian is a drug like the rest, so the pleasure can be very short, but the harm will be irreparable. A toy with valerian for a cat is also at risk. Hill’s veterinarians recommend the use of catnip analogues, which are beneficial to animals.

In general, any kind of intoxication of cats is the result of serious processes occurring in their body. To please a pet, it is better to buy a ball of dry catnip for a fluffy beauty.