How to Use Cat Nip

Catnip is a minty plant that possesses a unique quality: it gets cats high. While only about 80 percent of cats have a reaction to catnip, the cats that do will be immediately stimulated by sniffing the plant. A cat's response to catnip depends on her genes and age, as only sexually mature cats react to its chemical components and the response is hereditary. If your cat reacts to catnip, there are several ways to make it a part of your pet's habits.

Things You'll Need

  • Catnip
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Instructions

    • 1

      Crush dried catnip leaves or buds with your fingers. Crushing the catnip releases its scent.

    • 2

      Place some catnip inside a stuffed toy or a sock. When your cat smells the catnip, he will chase the toy around the house and likely destroy it.

    • 3

      Sprinkle catnip onto a cat bed, scratching post or the floor. Your cat will rub up against it and become very excited.

    • 4

      Store catnip in a resealable container in your freezer to protect the potency of the herb. Catnip loses its effects over time.