Is Catnip Bad For Cats

The worst that may happen with the excessive intake is loose stools or diarrhea.

Is catnip bad for cats. According to acclaimed cat behaviorist jackson galaxy some cats will sit in a big pile of the dried herb and simply drool eyes glazed over while others get completely hyper for a while running laps throughout. It s found to be neither toxic nor addictive so you can freely use it as a reward or training aid. Although catnip is considered safe for cats it is important that you do not overfeed your cat catnip. Catnip is a mild feline hallucinogen but it is completely nontoxic to cats.

Catnip is a plant related to mint and contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that is known to cause euphoric almost hallucinogenic feelings in cats. Also referred to as catmint catnip effects between 70 80 of cats. Catnip doesn t affect all cats the same way. Also if your fur baby is under 6 months old she.

Cats who overindulge on catnip may develop an upset stomach and commonly vomit or have diarrhea. If you want you can purchase a catnip plant and add it to your garden. Catnip sensitivity is hereditary and an estimated 50 percent of cats have no reaction to the plant at all according to the human society. You can rub it on scratching posts stuff it into socks for a simple toy and sprinkle it into new beds among others.

Long story short catnip is not bad for cats and kittens. Despite its crazy effects on felines catnip seems to be relatively harmless. Although felines go mad over it catnips are not addictive. The use of catnip can help timid cats experience playful behaviors and help keep playful cats from becoming bored says kim sparks a registered veterinary technician with medvet columbus.

Cat owners can use catnip for training purposes stimulating the mind promoting physical activity and reducing anxiety. It s non toxic and completely safe to smell and eat but there are some important things to know. Unfortunately cats do not know their limits when it comes to catnip and food and will commonly overindulge when given the opportunity. Catnip has been proven to be safe for cats although excessive amounts may result to a short spell of diarrhea.

However most commonly you will find it dried out and incorporated into different cat products. While most cats enjoy the herb dried or fresh they re usually less interested in catnip sprays which generally don t contain enough nepetalactone to appeal to most felines. Don t worry catnip is natural completely safe and nonaddictive fun for cats. It may also have some pain relieving properties adds sparks.