Alternatives to Cat Nip

Cat nip is an herb that is a perennial and is also part of the mint family. The reaction from cat nip in cats can be nothing to making them act wild and silly. The ability for cats to react to catnip is inherit. Nepetalactone is the chemical found in cat nip that causes the reaction from cats. Cat nip is not the only herb that causes strange reactions in cats; the following are a few examples.

  1. Honeysuckle

    • Honeysuckle is an alternative to cat nip causing more of a reaction in cats than cat nip. Unlike cat nip, when water is added to honeysuckle to make it wet, it increases its strength. Cats that won't respond to cat nip will usually respond to honeysuckle, especially if it is wet. The advantage that honeysuckle has over cat nip is that it doesn't lose its kick.

      Honeysuckle comes in different varieties, some of which have berries, which are poisonous for cats. To be on the safe side, buy a toy that already has honeysuckle in it.

    Valerian Root

    • Another substitute for cat nip is Valerian root, which causes a similar response in cats as cat nip. However, Valerian roots can only be purchased at garden stores to grow your own.

    Lemongrass

    • Lemongrass is another alternative to catnip. In its natural form, it has the same effect as cat nip, honeysuckle and Valerian roots. Do not use lemongrass oil as a substitute. Cats do not have the enzyme necessary to metabolize it in this form, and it can be toxic to your cat.