I was just wondering about catnip. As a relatively new cat owner im not sure what to think of it. i have heard it is a kind of 'drug' for cats which to me sounds awful. Im looking for more toys for my cats and they all seem to have catnip in. What exactly is it and what is it supposed to do to cats? thanks

__________________

According to my small bottle of powder (which my cats absolutely love) its a "natural stimulant for cats" and this one is "100% natural". I guess its very fine herbs. Can't comment on the drug side but i have to say that it makes them use the scratch posts instead of the furniture.

__________________

Catnip is a drug yes... but so is caffeine and nicotine and alcohol and a million other things... drug doesn't *always* mean bad

A small amount of catnip will attract a cat and encourage them to interact, this is why it is found in many toys and in things like scratching posts etc... it useful for encouraging cats to scratch and rub at that spot.

Too much catnip and a cat can get 'spaced out' and goofy, the exact amount varies from cat to cat and only 50% of cats are attracted/affected anyway. My boys both have catnip toys which they enjoy but I haven't seen any negative behaviour and the only time I have seen Indy 'stoned' is after I spilled a packet of dried catnip... the effect was a happy, hyperactive kitten... imagine drinking 3 redbulls

__________________

my boyfriend and i have always been against the idea of catnip.. but recently my mom decided she wants to de claw my cat, because it's legal here in the US, so I got catnip spray and now my kitty scratches her scratching post instead of the couch..

it's looking like she'll be keeping her nails

Our cats all adore their catnip treats, they once got hold of a packet of them though and did look a bit stoned, but the reccomended amout was about 3 treats a day so they had far too many, the vet said the only likelihood would be an upset tummy so I don't think they can really be dangerous.

__________________

hmm, i didnt think hardcore drug or anything but i just thought that you dont really know if the cat likes being in an altered state. i suppose they wouldnt have more if they didnt like it but just not sure. i didnt realise you could spray it on the scratching post to encourage them, think i may have to try that! im getting a new carpet next week so rather they scratch the post and not my new carpet!

__________________

Well to spray it you have to buy the actual spray. They make it in that form somehow.. It's probably not as potent, but I really don't know. I was always afraid my Mikah would have a bad reaction, but she started rubbing herself on the post, and then scratching it :P

I use the spray version (just from local pet shop) you spray it on any toys ,stractching posts etc, Bumble loves it !!

Catnip is a dried herb and can affect cats differently. My young Siamese is not bothered by it but my older moggy loves it. If it's really good he will roll around with the toy, dribbling and slobbering all over it - quite disgusting really
You can grow your own - I did have a plant but Gizmo insisted on rolling on it and it doesn't look to happy now
The spray is good for attracting cats eg to get them to claw cat-scratchers.
Gizmo with his favourite catnip body pillow (just a bag stuffed with catnip and filling)


And after

__________________

If cats could talk they would lie to you
http://www.lambchopsiamese.webs.com