Some cats are more susceptible to catnip. I had one that it didn’t do anything for her. I grew some catmint in my garden and that was a different story!!
According to a recent paper, catnip works through the body’s internal opioid system. When a cat smells catnip, a substance called nepetalactone interacts with certain cells in their upper airway. Once the interaction occurs, the cat’s body releases endorphins—natural opioids.
This theory is supported by the fact that cats who receive the opioid “antidote” naloxone are not affected by catnip. Ingestion alone seems to have little effect on cats, although some may chew on the herb, perhaps to release the nepetalactone, especially from drier leaves.
Although reports that the herb induces LSD-like hallucinations are probably overblown (and difficult to prove), catnip is nonetheless a safe, cheap, and effective way to give your cat some short-lived enjoyment.
Posted by ThomasLeviWhen I became a father I learned what it's like to love someone more than life itself.
Posted by ThomasLeviWhen I became a father I learned what it's like to love someone more than life itself.
Posted by LaurenIt's my first grand's fifth Gotcha Day and this is her in the arms of my daughter as they drove home.
Posted by LaurenIt would be warmer for us both if he'd get on my lap, but it has to be his idea - though he still likes to stay close.
Posted by RobertNappi2Saturday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Friday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Thursday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Tuesday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Saturday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Friday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Tuesday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Monday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Sunday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Hey! I'm not done yet...
Posted by RobertNappi2Saturday morning cuteness
Posted by RobertNappi2Thursday morning cuteness