Catnip

Catnip, Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb in the mint family. Its leaves contain nepetalactone, an oil that many cats find irresistible. A responding cat sniffs, licks or chews the plant, then rubs its face on it, rolls, drools and may leap about or become dreamy and still. The effect usually fades within about ten minutes, and the cat then ignores it for a while.

Sensitivity is inherited. Roughly two thirds of cats respond, and the rest show no interest. Kittens younger than about three to six months rarely react. Some big cats respond, too, although the response varies.

Catnip is generally safe and is not addictive. Sprinkle a little on a scratching post or stuff a toy, and use it a few times a week at most so it stays interesting. Cats that eat a lot may get a loose stool or vomit. Some become more excitable and may swipe at nearby people or pets, so keep play supervised in a multi-cat home. Keep the dried herb in a sealed container, and ask your vet if your cat seems unwell after eating any plant.