Is catnip bad for your cats?

Is Catnip Bad for your Cats?

Catnip, also commonly known as “catmint,” is a fan favorite herb amongst humans and cats alike. Its long history as a plant known to promote wellness and healing is well-documented. Though catnip has long been in use in medieval European cultures, it has only gained popularity in North America in the 19th century. Most cat owners have seen evidence of the positive things the catnip plant can introduce into the lives of their beloved felines, yet some questions still linger in their minds. Many owners ask the question: is catnip terrible for cats?

 

Is catnip safe for your cat to enjoy?

Since catnip can have an effect on your cat that leaves him reeling like a drunken sailor, it’s only natural that many owners would fear it is not safe for use in cats. As a member of the mint variety of plants, catnip is an incredibly fragrant herb that releases its scent when its leaves are torn or crushed. Cats are powerfully affected by this aroma. Though the catnip effects on cats are profound, the herb itself is harmless when administered incorrect amounts. Best of all; though the catnip plant is known to induce a euphoric state in cats, it is not an addictive substance. Offered as a weekly or monthly treat, owners need not fear that catnip is bad for cats. Quite the opposite!

 

Does catnip offer health benefits for your cat?

Not only is catnip safe for use in cats, but it also offers many health benefits. A natural version of a sedative or anti-anxiety medication, the catnip plant is a holistic mood-enhancer, helping your cat to feel more calm and relaxed in the face of stress.

Among the benefits catnip for cats can provide are:

• Stress relief
• Gastrointestinal distress and flatulence reduction
• Digestive Aid
• A soothing treatment for irritated skin
• Sleep Aid

 

Can catnip be used to treat common cat problems?

Catnip effects on cats are impossible to deny. If your cat could benefit from a more zen-like state, catnip is the herb that can deliver. But can catnip be used in the treatment of other medical or behavioral ailments with the same efficacy?

Owners report that the use of catnip for cat behavior problems is a highly useful tool. Have a kitty who likes to use your favourite antique sofa as a scratching post? By taking a few leaves from the catnip plant, tearing them, then selectively scattering them over a cat scratching post, you can virtually redirect your cat to a place he can scratch to his heart’s content. The catnip plant can play a vital role in shaping more desirable behaviors in your cat.

However, behavior modification is but one of many catnip effects on cats. Looking to stimulate Frisky’s brain? Combining catnip with some interactive toys is a great way to provide extra relaxation and fun as well as to promote calm, tranquil behaviour in your favourite feline pal.

 

Can catnip improve your cat’s quality of life?

Since cats, on the whole, do not respond well to change, it is important for owners to find ways to help ease their furry felines through any transitions they may face during their lifetime. Since catnip is known for its hallucinogenic effects, it may be just what the doctor ordered to help your cat cope with anxiety related to the disruption of his routine.

 

Can catnip help improve cat behaviour?

An anxious cat is a cranky cat, and a cranky cat is far more likely to be prone to mischief. Though it is not completely understood why the catnip plant so powerfully affects cat behaviour, it cannot be denied that it does. There are several theories which could potentially explain catnip effects on cats. One of the most popular hints that catnip’s main ingredient, nepetalactone, bears similar properties to opium and thus may affect a cat’s body in like fashion.

 

Whatever the reason, cats love catnip, and the feeling is mutual! To learn more about powerful catnip effects on cats, contact the experts at Natural Toys 4 Cat!

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Learn more about this beloved cat product at https://buynaturaltoys4cat.ca/collections/all/chew-toys. Your cat will thank you for it!