Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family, native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.It is widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand, and North America.The common name catmint can also refer to the genus as a whole.. The names catnip and catmint are derived from the …

Jan 30, 2025 · Key Takeaways. Catnip is an herb that, when smelled by a cat, can affect behavior. About 60% of cats will have a behavioral reaction to catnip. The effects of catnip varies from cat to cat, but can include signs of happiness, hyperactivity, or even aggression.

Aug 18, 2022 · The catnip plant Nepeta cataria is commonly confused with the catmint plant Nepeta mussinii. Both plants have gray-green foliage on square stems. However, catmint has a longer blooming period. And its flowers are purple while catnip’s are primarily white. Moreover, catnip is the plant that attracts cats while catmint does not.

Jul 5, 2022 · Catnip can be given to cats through toys filled with catnip, with fresh catnip plants that can be grown indoors, with a dried out plant which can be sprinkled on the floor or on old toys or ...

May 21, 2021 · Catnip’s status as kitty kryptonite is due to a specific chemical compound called nepalacatlone that the plant naturally releases when its leaves or stem are bruised. This chemical is thought to ...

Jan 19, 2024 · Fresh catnip: This is the most potent form of catnip. "You can find fresh catnip at pet stores or even grow it yourself," says Dr. Lambo. "Offer a small amount of fresh leaves to your cat by placing them on the floor or in a toy." Dried catnip: The most commonly used form of catnip is dried. "This form is great for engaging your cat's senses ...

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a plant famous for the excitement it creates in cats. The flowering tops are used to make medicine. Catnip contains chemicals that might have a calming effect.

May 28, 2023 · Catnip's allure is in its volatile oil, specifically one chemical in that oil -- nepetalactone. Found in catnip's leaves, stems, and seeds, it only takes one or two sniffs of that wondrous oil ...

Mar 28, 2025 · To get that catnip frenzy, cats need only smell the catnip, but some cats will also chew catnip plants. Cats at Collier Domestic Animal Services in Naples, Florida, play with a toy covered in ...

Feb 28, 2024 · When eaten, catnip can help stressed-out cats to relax and feel a bit calmer, and when inhaled, the active components of catnip encourage your cat to play. Frisking, pouncing, and other forms of play act also as powerful stress relievers. Catnip is a safe, gentle alternative to harsh behavioral redirection tools.