The reason cats get so excited about catnip is due to a chemical called nepetalactone. This chemical is a pheromone, a type of scent signal used by animals to communicate.
Here's why they love it:
* Not all cats respond: About 30% of cats are not affected by catnip. This is due to genetic factors.
* It triggers a reaction: When cats smell nepetalactone, it stimulates a part of their brain called the olfactory bulb, which is responsible for processing scent. This triggers a response in the cat's nervous system, causing them to act playful, euphoric, and even a little goofy!
* It's not addictive: Catnip doesn't create an addiction; the effects are temporary, lasting for about 10 minutes.
* It's not a drug: While it causes a reaction, it's not a drug in the sense that it alters their consciousness.
So, when you see your cat rolling around in catnip, it's not because they "detest" it, but because they are experiencing a pleasurable sensory overload!