My cats Fern and Autumn love catnip! So what is the secret ingredient that makes them want to sniff, lick, chew, rub and roll around? Catnip is a member of the mint family and is related to spearmint, basil and oregano. The secret ingredient in catnip is a compound called "Nepetalactone" that is believed to cause the cat's sudden and humorous behaviour response to the essential oil which the cats pick-up through their olfactory and oral receptors. Most cats are genetically predisposed to respond to catnip and young cats under the age of three months are indifferent to catnip. Catnip sensitivity is also inherited, so not all cats may respond.
Catnip is sold in fresh form (as plants) and dried form (in bulk or inside toys). Dried catnip should be kept in the freezer to preserve its potency. Typically, cats recover from their catnip "buzz" within 30 minutes to 2 hours, and can continue interacting with catnip toys and/or plants through out the day and night! My cats love all forms of catnip!
Interestingly enough, catnip tea is also supposed to have a mild soothing effect on nerves and digestion for humans! So, buy a plant today...it grows great in San Diego gardens and provides benefits for both you and your cats!
Catnip is sold in fresh form (as plants) and dried form (in bulk or inside toys). Dried catnip should be kept in the freezer to preserve its potency. Typically, cats recover from their catnip "buzz" within 30 minutes to 2 hours, and can continue interacting with catnip toys and/or plants through out the day and night! My cats love all forms of catnip!
Interestingly enough, catnip tea is also supposed to have a mild soothing effect on nerves and digestion for humans! So, buy a plant today...it grows great in San Diego gardens and provides benefits for both you and your cats!
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