Cats aren’t supposed to eat catnip – but they sure enjoy it! A cat can go through all of its life without a taste of catnip and it won’t make a difference. That’s not to say catnip is good or bad, though. It’s simply a mint-like herb that cats enjoy consuming.
The only thing cats are supposed to do is eat meat, have fun, and sleep plenty of naps. Catnip isn’t really on a must-do list, but it’s a good treat to be had!
Is it safe for a cat to eat catnip?
There’s nothing that indicates that a cat would be harmed by consuming catnip. Keep in mind everything in moderation is okay, but too much of a good thing is bad. Sometimes, a cat can eat too much catnip and get an upset stomach – but nothing else!
There are two ways a cat can enjoy catnip. By sniffing it and by eating it. As you know, cats can go over the line when it eats catnip. When it comes to sniffing it, a cat will know when it had enough and walk away on its own.
Make sure you keep an eye on your cat if you’re dealing with the catnip-eating kind.
What happens when a cat eats catnip?
Catnip is similar to a sedative. After consuming catnip, a cat will get a little bit hyperactive and, sometimes, standoffish. Other times, it will become overly affectionate. Then, after a little while, it’ll begin to dose off and take a long nap or stay in one place extremely relaxed.
There’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to catnip. Worst-case scenario, your cat will get aggressive. That’s a good sign to stop giving it catnip. More likely than not, it’ll play around with extra energy for a while and then doze off for a good nap.
Why do cats love catnip?
Catnip stimulates certain parts of a cat’s brain that are fired up when they mate and play with other cats. That gets them active, playful, and happy. There’s not much to it other than that, catnip makes cats have a good time.
At the end of the day, catnip is an herb that allows a cat to have fun and relax. There’s nothing wrong with that – and it’s no wonder why cats love it so much!
Can cats get addicted to catnip?
There’s not enough evidence to believe catnip is addictive to cats. They will consume it every time there’s some available, but most cats will act the same way with food and toys. Cats will not crave catnip nor will they get aggressive if they can’t get it.
Then again, if your cat seems to be addicted, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to keep the catnip away for a little while. A cat won’t be hurt by not consuming catnip and it’s in no way considered essential in your cat’s diet or life. Nothing to worry about there!