Not Just Catnip: 5 Plants Cats Are Crazy About

Everyone knows that catnip makes cats go wild, but it's far from the only plant that can have this effect on cats.

Cats are known for their independence, but if you want to really grab their attention, just use one of these plants. We've all heard of catnip (Nepeta cataria), but there are actually many other plants that are just as delightful to our furry pets. Let's find out which herbs delight cats and how they affect them.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), which is commonly used as a sedative for humans, has a completely different effect on cats. It is a real natural stimulant for them. Valerian contains active substances that act on receptors in the cat's brain, causing playfulness and excitement. If your cat is acting sluggish, try offering her valerian root - and watch as she begins to roll on the floor, purr, and behave more actively.

Cat thyme (Teucrium marum) is a plant that has a similar effect on cats as catnip. In nature, it is a low evergreen shrub with gray-green leaves and purple flowers, growing in the western Mediterranean. Cats are attracted to thyme because of its essential oils, which make them playful and relaxed. The leaves can be crushed and offered to the cat - the effect will be immediate.

Silvervine (Actinidia polygama), also known as matatabi, is native to Asia and is considered an even more powerful plant than catnip. This plant contains two active ingredients: actinidin and diaspirin, which cause an emotional uplift in cats and stimulate playful behavior. Unlike catnip, which can quickly lose its effect, matatabi lasts longer, causing a state of mild euphoria in cats.

Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) is a shrub that can cause a catnip-like reaction in cats due to its aromatic substances. Cats may rub against the branches or roll on the ground near the plant, enjoying its scent. However, it is important to remember that the red berries of Tatarian honeysuckle are poisonous to pets. Therefore, it is safer to offer cats only the wood of the plant, after removing all leaves and fruits to avoid the risk of poisoning.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a plant that has a strong stimulating effect on cats due to the presence of a special substance called nepetalactone. It affects the receptors in the cat's brain, causing a feeling of euphoria and playfulness. When in contact with catnip, many pets begin to roll on the ground, rub against the leaves and purr, being in a state of delight. The reaction usually lasts about 10-15 minutes, after which the cat loses interest for some time. Although this plant is completely safe for cats, the effect does not work on everyone - about 30% of cats remain indifferent to catnip, since the reaction to nepetalactone is transmitted genetically.

All these herbs contain special substances called iridoids, which simply drive cats crazy. There are three theories as to why this happens. The first one says that iridoids act as light drugs for cats. According to the second one, these substances resemble cat pheromones, which is why pets start playing actively and getting excited. And the third theory claims that iridoids are natural repellents that repel insects. When a cat rolls in the grass, it is as if it is covered with a “protective layer” from parasites.

Plants can be really fun for cats, but it’s important to remember safety. Never give your pet too much, as this can cause stomach upset or other unpleasant side effects. It’s best to use plants in toys or grow them in places where your cat only has access under your supervision.

Also, you can't give cats drugs intended for people! The concentration of active and auxiliary substances, for example, in pharmacy tincture of valerian, is absolutely not suitable for cats. Even "a little bit, to make him laugh" can be dangerous!

Has your cat tried any of these plants? Which was her favorite? Tell us in the comments.