How Much Catnip Should I Give My Cat & How Often Is Safe?

As pet parents, we all want to do what’s right for our feline family members, whether it’s feeding them the right cat food or using the perfect cat litter in their litter box. Sometimes, though, it’s not easy to tell whether something is safe, even if everyone’s doing it. Take catnip for example. Do you know what catnip is, how it affects cats, and if there’s a toxic amount? Let’s find out the details every cat owner should know about catnip.

What Is Catnip?

You can grow your own catnip, or purchase catnip toys, treats, or spays.

Catnip, also known as cat mint or Nepeta cataria, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family. It’s a hardy perennial plant that grows and spreads quite easily, just like other mint varieties. It can be found throughout the world in countries with temperate climates, including North America and Europe.

You might grow catnip plants in your garden or perhaps in a planter or window box, but you can also get catnip sprays, catnip toys, and catnip treats. Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is responsible for the effect on cats when they sniff the plant.

Also Read: Does Catnip Make Cats High?

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

Catnip can either make cats relaxed and affectionate or excited and playful.

Catnip has a quick and profound effect on cats when they smell it. Their pupils might become dilated, their ears might lie flatter to their head, and their eyes might dart around as they take everything in. Your cat might run around frantically, attack their own tail, or have a sudden episode of scratching the furniture or kangaroo kicking their favorite soft toy.

So, catnip gives your cat a burst of energy, right? Well, not always! In fact, when they’ve been in contact with catnip, some cats become very relaxed and affectionate rather than playful and skittish. These cats might rub against surfaces or their owner’s legs, leaving their scent.

They might purr lots and give you affectionate headbutts (known as bunting). When it comes to catnip, every cat is different. The effect depends on their sensitivity and might be more dramatic in kittens.

Also Read: What Does Catnip Do To Cats & Why Cats Like It?

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Catnip is known to be very safe for cats, although stomach upset can occur if cats eat it in large amounts.

Cats that have ingested or inhaled catnip can seem “high,” which might make you assume that, like many drugs, it could be dangerous. However, there’s no evidence that catnip can be harmful to your cat. Although an overdose is theoretically possible, cats don’t tend to be excessive and will move away from the catnip after a short period.

Luckily, the effects of catnip are temporary, usually lasting anywhere from five minutes to half an hour. After this, your cat should be back to their normal self. Not all cats try to eat catnip—most are satisfied with the smell. But if your cat eats too much catnip it might upset their stomach, causing vomiting or diarrhea.

Also Read: 10 Toxic & Poisonous Plants For Cats

How Much Catnip Should You Give Your Cat?

If you grow catnip, your cat can wander over for a sniff or nibble as often as they like.

When it comes to catnip, less really is more because a little goes a long way! Try sprinkling a little catnip on their toys, scratching posts, cat tree, or activity center to encourage more vigorous and enthusiastic play. You can also buy specific toys that contain catnip or can be stuffed with dried catnip.

This can be particularly useful if your cat needs to shed a few pounds by being more active. Remember, though, you only need a small sprinkle. You might also find that catnip helps your cat feel more relaxed or distracts them at times when they would normally feel anxious. If this is the case, you could sprinkle a little in their cat carrier or cat bed.

If you give a small amount of catnip and find there’s no effect, try giving a little more next time—but this is unlikely! Some people grow fresh catnip and their cats help themselves as and when they want.

Also Read: The 5 Best Catnip Products For Cats (Spray & Toys and More Surprises)

How Often Can You Give Your Cat Catnip?

The effects of catnip may diminish if you give it to your cat too often.

It might be tempting to give your cat catnip every day, especially if your cat seems to have lots of fun or seems really chilled. However, the sad reality of catnip is that the more it’s used, the less of an effect it has on your cat.

So, especially if you’re relying on it to combat behavior issues, it’s best to only use it occasionally, when it’s needed. It’s also been suggested that overexposure to catnip could leave your cat feeling frustrated, which might lead to other behavior problems.

From experience, I’d suggest no more than two to three catnip sessions each week.

Also Read: The 12 Best Cat Toys: Keep Your Cat Fit And Happy With These Irresistible Toys

In Summary

If your cat enjoys catnip, you can give it to them occasionally for some enrichment and fun.

It’s heartwarming to see your cat playing happily, and it can be pretty funny, too! Thankfully, unless your cat eats copious amounts of catnip, it shouldn’t cause them any health issues. However, if your cat seems unwell, regardless of whether they’ve had access to catnip, it’s a good idea to speak to a veterinarian.

Also Read: Best Calming Aid For Cats