Cats and Catnips
Using catnip for cats is a great way to calm your pet and relieve their stress. However, before you decide to use the plant you should be aware of the risks.
It causes a mild hallucinogenic reaction
During the 1600s, catnip was used as a mild sedative for humans. It was also used to treat colic and excessive flatulence in infants. The plant was used as a substitute for marijuana. It was also chewed, sprayed, and brewed into a tea.
A number of studies have been performed on cats and catnip to find out how it affects cats. They have concluded that catnip causes a chemical reaction in the feline brain that is similar to a hallucinogenic drug.
A chemical found in the catnip plant called nepetalactone binds to receptors in the cat's nose. This stimulates sensory neurons that lead into the cat's brain. This reaction is believed to cause felines to become intoxicated.
The olfactory bulb is a part of the brain that is involved in the regulation of emotions. When cats sniff catnip, the olfactory bulb sends a signal to the amygdala. The amygdala is the emotional response center of the brain.
There are other plants with a similar effect on cats. These include teucrium marum and valerian. The cats seem to have visual hallucinations when they smell these plants.
However, the effects of these plants are not as pronounced as those of catnip. When they are smoked or eaten, the cats experience a mild hallucinogenic effect.
Most cats react to catnip in a calm and relaxing manner. But some cats can be highly excited and act crazy for several minutes.
It can calm your cat to relieve anxiety
Using catnips to calm your cat can be a safe and effective way to reduce your pet's anxiety. Whether your cat is going to the vet or simply needs to relax after a long day, you can give them a quick dose of this herb.
The main ingredient in catnip is nepetalactone. This compound stimulates the brain's sensory neurons and causes dopamine release, which is what makes your cat feel good. It is also a mild opiate-like substance that acts as a mild pain reliever.
Aside from using catnip to calm your cat, you can also use other herbs to soothe your pet's nerves. For example, chamomile flowers are known to promote relaxation in cats. These flowers contain substances that act on the brain, nervous system, and even the heart.
Catnip is a plant native to Europe and Asia. It is considered to be a mint-family plant. It can be purchased in the form of toys, sprays, or loose herbs. You can also mix the herb with valerian root to help your cat to relax.
You can also make a catnip tea. This is a natural remedy that can be used to ease dry skin and nerves. You can also make a liquid spray of the herb that can be applied to scratching posts or beds.
It may behave differently than other cats
Whether you're a cat owner or just an animal lover, chances are you've heard of catnip. The plant may sound like a weed, but in fact, it's an enlightened herb with an essential oil called nepetalactone, which has been known to produce euphoria in cats.
Luckily for pet owners, catnip can be enjoyed in many forms, including fresh, dried, and even in a spray. While it's recommended you leave the actual plant in the house, it's also a good idea to keep a close eye on your pet. The key is to make sure the cat doesn't ingest too much of it at once.
The plant is actually quite safe to ingest, and even beneficial to your pet's health. Having your cat sniff, lick, and nibble the leaves can be a nice way to stimulate social interactions between your feline. The oils can be released through your cat's actions, causing a pleasant aroma.
Aside from being safe, catnip can actually help reduce stress in your household. Catnip can be used as a toy or as a food additive. As a bonus, it also helps to reduce shedding, making it a win-win situation. If your feline isn't too fond of the plant, try reintroducing it in moderation.
The best way to get your cat's attention is by offering it the best rewards in the form of tasty treats, playtime, and attention. A good rule of thumb is to give catnip every other day, and then allow it to graze on it for the rest of the week.