Jan 31, 2025 · What is catnip? Dr. Heather Hoffmann discusses why cats like catnip, how catnip works, and how to give catnip to your cat.

Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family, native to southern and eastern Europe, northern parts of the Middle East, and Central Asia.

May 7, 2025 · What is catnip? Veterinarians explain how it affects your cat and the science behind common behaviors like sniffing, eating, and rolling around in it.

Apr 6, 2025 · Catnip's allure is in its volatile oil, specifically one chemical in that oil -- nepetalactone. Found in catnip's leaves, stems, and seeds, it only takes one or two sniffs of that wondrous oil...

Nov 7, 2025 · Catnip, (Nepeta cataria), herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), noted for its aromatic leaves, which are particularly exciting to cats. Catnip is commonly grown by cat owners for their pets, …

Sep 12, 2022 · Nearly two-thirds of cats have a hereditary trait that attracts them to catnip. Learn more about its effects on cats, safe catnip toys, and how to grow it!

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a plant that has a unique effect on cats. When cats come into contact with catnip, they often exhibit behaviors such as rolling, rubbing, meowing, and overall …

Jun 17, 2025 · Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial plant that is a part of the mint family. It’s native to central Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and it’s sometimes called catnep, catsworth, or field balm.

Sep 23, 2024 · Catnip contains an oil called nepetalactone that activates the parts of a cat's brain associated with scent, mood, and behavioral regulation. Catnip can put cats in a good mood, but it …

Jun 6, 2025 · What is catnip? Catnip is a member of the mint family and contains a compound called nepetalactone, which affects cats through their olfactory system (sense of smell).