Catnip Facts

Here are some interesting facts about Catnip

• Catnip, a plant in the mint family, is officially known as Nepeta Cataria.
• Romans used it thousands of years ago for cooking & healing. The first evidence of Catnip in the New World was in 1712 in Massachusetts.
• Genetics is a major reason cats react to Catnip. The enticing odor triggers certain nerves within the cat’s brain.
• The fresher the Catnip, the more reactive the cat.
• Not all cats react the same to Catnip. Some cats roll and rub on the Catnip, loudly purr, eat it, and/or exhibit inebriated behavior; others ignore it altogether!
• Catnip is harmless and non-addictive.
• Wild cats — lions, leopards, pumas — react the same to Catnip as domestic cats.
• Cats can become immune to Catnip — it’s best to dole out Catnip in small doses: remove catnip toys after 10-15 minutes of play-time and reintroduce a week or so later. Perhaps try not to leave catnip out 24/7.