The Catnip Crazies, the Science Behind the Scent
May 21, 2016
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Anyone with a cat has probably come across catnip. This herb is related to mint and can be dried and placed into cat toys, infused into a spray and "soap" bubbles, as well left growing in a pot or a garden. Catnip originally was grown in Europe, but was imported into North America where it now flourishes in the wild as a weed. So what is it about this plant that makes our feline friends freak-out? Read on to discover the science behind the scent.
The Nepetalactone Neuron
We said we were going to get scientific so here's what makes our cats go crazy when they come in contact with catnip. It's called, nepetalactone. This is the main 'volatile' oil found in catnip, that once it has entered through the nasal passage, it adheres to protein receptors that then stimulate the sensory neurons in the cat's brain. In other words, it gives the cat the crazies.
Kitty Crack Responses
Coined as "Kitty crack," catnip can make our felines exhibit all sorts of odd behaviors. These actions can manifest themselves as rolling around with a catnip-infused toy while sniffing or licking it, rubbing the head and body along the plant and racing around the home after sniffing or injesting the herb. The effects of the catnip can last anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes and may even produce a general sense of calm as the effects begin to wear off. However, once cats have indulged in catnip, they are usually immune for about an hour or so after. In addition, kittens under 6 months-old generally do not react to the green stuff and around 20% to 30% percent of the general feline population will also not be affected.
Catnip and People
If you're wondering what the effects of catnip are on the human brain, it's the exact opposite to our hairy friends. In fact, people will choose to drink this natural herb in a tea to help put them to sleep. Just as well as rolling around on the floor, then running pel-mel throughout your home is probably not something you want to do...at least, not in front of guests.
catnip is one of those things that can give your cat a needed burst of energy. Try it with your feline to determine if it is in the receptive-population or not. If so, be prepared for some cat crazies that may be fun to watch. If it's too much hilarity, just brew yourself up a hot cup of catnip tea and catch youself some zzzzz's.