Is Catnip Bad For Cats

It s non toxic and completely safe to smell and eat but there are some important things to know.

Is catnip bad for cats. You can rub it on scratching posts stuff it into socks for a simple toy and sprinkle it into new beds among others. While most cats enjoy the herb dried or fresh they re usually less interested in catnip sprays which generally don t contain enough nepetalactone to appeal to most felines. One thing that is important to note about using catnip for kittens is that some may attempt to eat it in addition to just sniffing it or playing with it inside of a pet toy. Catnip sensitivity is hereditary and an estimated 50 percent of cats have no reaction to the plant at all according to the human society.

The catnip herb contains an ingredient that many cats react to. Although felines go mad over it catnips are not addictive. Keep your cat happy and interested in their toys by rotating them. Catnip is a plant related to mint and contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that is known to cause euphoric almost hallucinogenic feelings in cats.

Fresh catnip is much more potent than dried catnip so less will go a longer way says dr. It s found to be neither toxic nor addictive so you can freely use it as a reward or training aid. The worst that may happen with the excessive intake is loose stools or diarrhea. It also resembles some properties of male cat urine which may be why some cats react to the herb as though in heat with yowling rolling and slobbering.

Catnip is a mild feline hallucinogen but it is completely nontoxic to cats. Catnip doesn t affect all cats the same way. Long story short catnip is not bad for cats and kittens. The good news is catnip is non toxic to cats of any age including kittens.

Also avoid highly concentrated catnip oils. In fact too much catnip at one time can cause health problems for cats so it s advised to work with your veterinarian to determine the right amount for your cat. Also if your fur baby is under 6 months old she. It is non toxic and has no adverse effect when consumed by cats.

Offer some toys as available and hide the rest in a ziplock bag or jar and marinate them in catnip. Don t worry catnip is natural completely safe and nonaddictive fun for cats. Catnip has been proven to be safe for cats although excessive amounts may result to a short spell of diarrhea. According to acclaimed cat behaviorist jackson galaxy some cats will sit in a big pile of the dried herb and simply drool eyes glazed over while others get completely hyper for a while running laps throughout.