05/31/2026
š¾ What does catnip really do to cats?
Catnip (a mint-family plant) contains a compound called nepetalactone that triggers a sensory reaction in many cats. When they smell it, it can spark bursts of playful energyārolling, zoomies, and sillinessāfollowed by a calm, relaxed state.
Not every cat is affected (itās genetic!), and reactions can vary from excited to chill. The āhighā usually fades within about 20ā30 minutes, leaving your cat mellow and sleepy.
⨠Bottom line: catnip isnāt just entertainingāit can enrich your catās life by encouraging play, reducing stress, and providing a fun mental boost.