Is it harmful for cats to eat catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria), a member of the mint family, is not harmful to cats. On the contrary, most cats exhibit various behavioral responses to catnip due to a chemical compound known as nepetalactone. Some react by rolling around, rubbing their faces on the plant, and exhibiting increased affection. These behaviors are typically seen for a brief period, usually lasting only a few minutes, after which cats become indifferent to catnip for several hours. However, it's essential to note that while catnip is not toxic to cats, individual reactions can vary, and some may not respond to it at all.