Catnip: A Natural Remedy for Your Cat's Health

• Posted on 21 March 2025
• By Staff Blogger: Josephine Richardson
• Posted in cat health, cat nutrition, Cat Safety, cat toys, Natural Pet Care, pet nutrition, pet toys
• 0

Most cats love catnip. Most cats act with a euphoric reaction displayed with rolling, scenting, and overall silly antics, whether dried catnip or fresh from the yard. Cats of all ages, from young kittens to senior cats, from domestic cats to big cats, for scenting enrichment activities can all participate and react to catnip. Learn why it's a cat's holy grail!

Catnip is not just a fun treat for cats. It is a powerful, natural herb that can support mood, digestion, and even pest protection. Dogs can benefit too.

Catnip belongs in every pet parent's toolkit. Here is why.

What Is Catnip?

Catnip is a perennial herb in the mint family, also known as Nepeta cataria. It is easy to grow and instantly recognizable by its fragrant leaves and small white flowers. The magic ingredient is nepetalactone, a natural oil that triggers a feel-good response in cats. When they sniff or rub against catnip, it activates pleasure centers in their brain, making them roll, purr, and play. When cats eat catnip instead of sniffing it, it often has a calming effect instead of an energetic one.

Why Cats Love It (and Sometimes Eat It)

When cats sniff catnip, the oils trigger a happy brain response. Cue: zoomies, flops, and pure goofball joy. Eating catnip, though, usually has a calmer effect... think naptime instead of party mode.

 Most reactions last about 10 minutes before your cat chills out again.

Not All Cats React, And That’s Normal!

About 20–30% of cats don’t respond to catnip because of genetics.
(Our Agnes is unimpressed by it... diva vibes only.)

Good news:
There are catnip alternatives like silvervine and valerian root that non-responders love!
Check out our favorite alternatives ➔

Catnip Isn't Just for Play: Real Benefits You’ll Love

• Calming Aid: Natural stress reliever for anxious cats and dogs.
• Digestive Support: Catnip tea soothes upset bellies in pets (and people!).
• Natural Bug Repellent: Catnip oil is more powerful than DEET at keeping mosquitoes and pests away.
• First Aid Power: Antimicrobial magic: Catnip oil helps treat minor wounds and ear irritations.

Safe Ways to Use Catnip (for Cats and Dogs)

For Cats:

• Sprinkle dried catnip on toys, beds, or scratchers.

• Grow fresh catnip indoors or outside.

• Offer calming chews with catnip for stress relief.

For Dogs:

• Add a sprinkle to food for digestion and calming.

• Brew mild catnip tea for tummy troubles.

• Use calming formulas like Dr. Harvey’s Relax that feature catnip.

Pro Tip: Start small. Too much catnip = possible mild tummy upset.

Can Kittens Have Catnip?

Yep!
But... kittens under 6 months may not react yet. Sensitivity grows as they get older.

In conclusion, you can't give too much catnip. Cats love it, and we often find joy in their goofy behaviors from the effects of catnip. And bonus, it helps our dog friends too!

Why Local Pet Parents Trust The Pet Beastro

Catnip is an easy and natural way to boost your pet's happiness and well-being. Whether you are helping a cat play, calming a nervous dog, or looking for natural pest solutions, catnip is a versatile addition to your pet care routine.

The Pet Beastro proudly serves the communities of Madison Heights and Warren, Michigan with the highest quality natural pet products. We carefully select catnip toys, teas, sprays, and calming supplements to help your pet live their best life.

Stop by our Madison Heights location or order for local delivery in Warren and surrounding areas. Let us help you find the perfect catnip products for your furry family members.