What is catnip?
And what is it about catnip that drives your kitty crazy? The effects
of catnip vary from cat to cat. Some cats will 'mellow out'
and become sleepy and happy while others start acting like brisk
kittens. A small percentage of cats will actually get very possessive
of their catnip and may snap and hiss at you.
Researchers say
that catnip stimulates the pleasure part of the brain related to
orgasm but that is far as they know. Catnip is not an addictive
drug but considered a 'recreational drug' with no known harm to
the cat. Also, very young cats and kittens are not affected
by catnip or desire it.
There are about
250 species of catnip and some hybrids but only 10 species are available
in the United States. It is also possible to buy catnip seeds
to grow from garden centers. Look for catnip plants near the herb
section.
