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, northern parts of the Middle East, and Central Asia. It is widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand , and North America .

What is catnip? Dr. Heather Hoffmann discusses why cats like catnip, how catnip works, and how to give catnip to your cat.

Jul 5, 2022 · Catnip contains nepetalactone, an essential oil found in the catnip plant. Here's how it affects your cat and why it makes them feel so good.

Aug 18, 2022 · Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herbaceous perennial that thrives in much of North America and is very easy to grow. It has a clump-forming growth habit with square stems and triangular to oval, gray-green leaves with toothed edges that stretch around 3 inches long.

May 21, 2021 · Nepeta cataria, or more commonly known as catnip is a plant native to parts of Europe and Asia that is well known for its cat-attracting (and craze-inducing) properties among domestic cats and...

Jan 19, 2024 · Catnip and catmint are related plants, but they are not the same. "Catnip is known for its effects on cats, containing the compound nepetalactone," says Dr. Lambp. "Catmint is often grown as an ornamental plant and doesn't typically produce the same response in cats."

Nov 26, 2020 · Sprinkle some catnip near to your kitten and you’ll notice a sudden change in behaviour. Find out more about this plant and why it’s got such an effect on your fluffy feline. Here is all you need to know about cats and catnip.

Oct 11, 2024 · Where to Plant Catmint vs. Catnip . Both catmint and catnip grow well in full sun. Each plant will tolerate a few hours of shade, but they need about 8 hours of direct sunlight to thrive. Catnip and catmint grow in average, well-drained soil. Catnip will tolerate poor soil and can reseed and spread readily, which makes it a nuisance in warmer ...

Learn more about CATNIP uses, effectiveness, possible side effects, interactions, dosage, user ratings and products that contain CATNIP.

Mar 26, 2025 · Catnip, (Nepeta cataria), herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), noted for its aromatic leaves, which are particularly exciting to cats. Catnip is commonly grown by cat owners for their pets, and the dried leaves are often used as a stuffing for cat playthings.