Effects of Cat Nip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb and a member of the mint family, native to Europe and Asia. Common catnip is well-known for its hallucinogenic affects on the common cat; the ingredient responsible is nepetalactone, an essential oil found in the plant's leaves and stems. About 50 percent of cats experience reactions to catnip.

  1. Rolling

    • Nepetalactone generally acts as a stimulant for cats, when sniffed. You may notice a cat becoming hyperactive after sniffing catnip, with the "high" lasting five to ten minutes and followed by a nap or period of inactivity. Upon first sniffing catnip, the cat may roll around on the floor, often meowing or purring. The hallucinogenic and/or psychosexual effects of the catnip encourage the cat to roll as it might when pheromones are released by the proximity of a potential mate.

    Hyperactivity

    • Many cats, when exposed to catnip, run around with much more energy than you may be accustomed to observing. Cats may jump, run, pounce and generally display energetic outbursts. Cats cannot overdose on catnip. The effects subside after a few minutes; however, if your cat suffers from a condition that might make sudden activity dangerous, you might consider withholding catnip as a precaution.

    Aggression

    • Mild aggression may be seen as an effect of catnip. This behavior is usually directed toward other household pets, especially if the cat in question is known to play roughly or exhibit aggression under normal circumstances. If the cat is aggressive and it concerns you, consider refraining from exposing the cat to catnip in the future. The difference between kitten-like playfulness and overly-aggressive behavior should be fairly evident.

    Sedation

    • Strangely enough, nepetalactone, so prone to induce hyperactivity in cats when smelled, serves as a depressant when eaten. If catnip is sprinkled onto a surface (such as a corrugated cardboard scratching post), cats may sample the herb and become a bit sleepy. This reaction also may be observed when catnip is smelled, as its effects wear off. The cat may assume and hold unusual positions, such as lying still while on its back. These actions not be as entertaining to observe as frenetic antics, but the pleasure principle still applies, and owners can rest assured that their pets are enjoying the catnip's effects.