Catnip: benefits, uses, and tips for choosing it!
Catnip is much more than just a treat for our felines. This plant, sometimes likened to a medicinal herb, plays an important role in the digestion, mental stimulation, and behavior of cats. But what exactly is it? Why are so many cats attracted to this aromatic plant? And most importantly, how do you choose the best catnip for your pet? Here's everything you need to know.
What is catnip?
The term "catnip" encompasses two very different types of plants:
- Edible catnip, often made up of grasses like wheat, barley, or oats, used to aid digestion and eliminate hairballs. It is sometimes grown in the vegetable garden or in indoor pots, like other aromatic herbs.
- Catmint, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial plant of the Lamiaceae family, a cousin of peppermint, known for its euphoric effects on some cats. Its fragrant foliage sometimes resembles lemongrass or basil.
These plants, although distinct, share digestive and stimulating properties, making them natural allies for feline well-being.
Why do cats like catnip?
Catmint: a stimulating and euphoric plant!
Catmint, also called catnip, releases a powerful aroma that stimulates cats through the plant pheromones present in its leaves. It acts as a nervous tonic and can cause unusual behaviors: rolling, rubbing, meowing, and even sudden jumps. This reaction is harmless and lasts a few minutes.
Catmint is used in various forms: dried leaves, herbal tea, infusion.
Edible grass: natural digestive support!
Fresh catnip is rich in vegetable fibers and vitamins, and facilitates the elimination of hairballs that accumulate in the stomach and intestines. This plant helps digestion, relieves cramps or bloating, and contributes to good intestinal transit.
Like other medicinal plants (such as lemon balm, fennel, or chamomile), it has digestive and depurative properties that can help the cat eliminate toxins naturally, while supporting the digestive and hepatic (liver, gallbladder) systems.
What are the benefits of catnip?
For physical health!
- Promotes the elimination of hair ingested during grooming;
- Stimulates appetite and aids digestion, similar to ginger, mint, or sage in phytotherapy;
- Provides natural nutrients, such as magnesium, useful for the proper functioning of the digestive system.
For mental well-being!
- Olfactory stimulation thanks to the natural aroma of catnip or other dried aromatic herbs (lavender, thyme, oregano...);
- Reduction of stress and anxious behaviors, as with lemon verbena infusions or natural valerian-based remedies;
- Strengthening the human-animal bond through play or relaxation sessions.
How to give catnip?
Dried catnip or in sachets
Dried catnip leaves can be used:
- In sachets for infusion, to flavor boiling water, create a calming infusion, or fill a cat pillow;
- In spray, to attract your cat to a scratching post or basket;
- In herbal teas (for external use only for cats – do not let them drink).
Enriched toys and accessories
Many cat toys contain dried catnip flowers or stems, combined with natural (non-toxic) essential oils or other aromatics such as lemon balm or wild thyme, to flavor and attract the cat.
Usage precautions
Although natural, catnip requires some precautions:
- Do not overdo it: excessive consumption can lead to intestinal problems (vomiting, soft stools);
- Monitor for allergic reactions or signs of digestive discomfort;
- Prefer a plant grown without pesticides, fresh or naturally dried, as found in herbal stores;
- Avoid mixtures containing plants toxic to cats (elderberry, garlic, artichoke...).
Which catnip to choose?
It all depends on the desired effect:
- For a digestive effect: prefer an edible herb, fresh or grown, such as wheat or barley, rich in medicinal properties;
- For a playful and stimulating effect: opt for catnip in the form of dried plant, bouquets, vegetable capsules, or scented sachets;
- For a combined action: some brands offer mixtures of dried plants such as rosemary, lavender or mint to enrich the cat's sensory environment.
A useful plant for cats' daily lives!
Catnip, whether digestive, stimulating, or aromatic, is a useful plant to improve the daily lives of cats, especially those living indoors. It supports their digestive system, stimulates their natural behavior, and offers them a true moment of pleasure.