Why do all cats absolutely detest catnip yet help rolling around in it?

You're actually mistaken! Cats don't detest catnip. They love it!

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!