We have talked about toxic food pets should avoid. Let’s discuss a plant that is beneficial to cats – catnip!
Nepeta cataria is a herbaceous plant. Commonly known as catnip, it is also recognized for other names such as catmint, catswort and catwort. It belongs to the mint family and has a strong odour. This herb is mostly found in Central Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. The feline family has a special affection for catnip.
Catnip contains a special chemical compound called nepetalactone which is volatile in nature. So, whenever a cat sniffs this plant, significant behavioural changes are usually observed. This trait is inherited from their ancestors. However, not all cats show such response to catnip – around 60-70% of cats have the genes that trigger excitement after smelling or ingesting catnip.
Mechanism of action:
There is an extra sense organ in cats known as vomeronasal gland inside their hard palate (i.e. roof of the mouth). When nepetalactone in catnip enters the nasal cavity, it binds to specific protein receptors, creating a signal which is transmitted to the brain. Specific hormones are then released, triggering sexual behaviour happiness, the cat will subsequently display similar behaviours or signs as if it is on heat. This reaction is observed in both males and females who possess dominant genes for this trait.
Effect of catnip on kittens:
Kittens younger than three months old do not show any reaction to catnip. From the age of 3 to 6 months old or sometimes after 6 months old they gradually start developing sensitivity to this volatile nepetalactone. Catnip has no harmful effects on kittens.
Behavioural changes:
The special response to catnip is triggered by smelling or ingesting the plant which can alter their behaviour. They will rub their body against the plant, jump, roll and vocalize. Constant staring may also be seen sometimes. Some cats may show aggression when you approach them during euphoria.
The herb is found in various forms e.g. fresh catnip, dry catnip, catnip spray and catnip-stuffed toys. The effect depends on its quality and quantity. Moreover, the effect varies from cat to cat. Usually the effect lasts for around 10 minutes. The effect on your cat wears off within 30 to 60 minutes when the source of catnip is removed.
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