At What Age Do Cats Smell Catnip?

Catnap is an intoxicating substance for many cats, which can trigger a state of euphoria, playful behaviors and even sexual exhibitions. Derived from the nepeta plant, the pheromone-like catnip oil -- also called catmint or cat̵7;s wort -- doesn̵7;t have a negative or long-term impact on cats. In fact, up to 50 percent of cats aren̵7;t affected by the smell of catnip at all.

  1. Dried, Packaged and Fresh

    • Catnip comes in a variety of forms, including fresh plants, sprays, dried and packaged varieties. You can purchase stuffed toys and playthings that contain catnip, or that have a compartment for adding your own fresh catnip. Cats typically enjoy rubbing catnip on their bodies and inhaling its aroma, and some may eat loose catnip if given the opportunity.

    Catnip and Age

    • Very young kittens are not impacted by catnip. In fact, catnip doesn't start to have any effect on cats until they're several months old. Some kittens, in fact, are turned off by the smell of catnip and will avoid breathing its aroma. If your young cat doesn̵7;t seem interested, wait a few weeks and try again to see if her tastes have changed or matured.

    Catnip Uses

    • Some pet owners rub or spray catnip on scratching posts and litter boxes to encourage and train their cats to these areas. Others use it as a special treat or to reward good behavior in problem cats. Catnip also is effective at getting house cats to exercise. Catnip can be sprayed on feather toys or other toys. The effectiveness of catnip can wear off over time, so periodic replacement or reapplication is necessary.

    Catnip Side Effects

    • The ̶0;high̶1; your cat gets from smelling catnip doesn̵7;t last more than 15 minutes. During this time, behaviors can range from ecstatic to sedate. While it's not possible for a cat to overdose on the aroma of catnip, eating too much catnip can cause gastrointestinal upset. Diarrhea and vomiting are both signs your cat has had a little too much.

    Catnip Cautions

    • If your cat has any type of health problems, ask your vet about the safety of smelling catnip. For example, a cat recovering from a broken bone, or a kitty with heart problems shouldn̵7;t smell catnip if it makes her run and jump like an excited kitten.