Why Do Cats Like Catnip?

What is nepetalactone?

Nepetalactone is the active chemical compound found in the leaves and stems of the catnip plant (Nepeta cataria). When a cat sniffs catnip, nepetalactone molecules bind to sensory receptors in the nasal tissue, which sends signals to the olfactory bulb and then to the amygdala (the brain's emotional center) and the hypothalamus. This triggers a cascade of behavioral responses that mimic how a cat might react to feline pheromones. The response is not a "high" in the way humans experience drugs; it's more of a sensory-triggered behavioral pattern.

Why don't all cats react to it?

Sensitivity to catnip is genetic and inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. Roughly 50% to 70% of cats respond, and the rest are completely unaffected. Kittens under about 6 months old typically don't react either, as the response develops with sexual maturity. Big cats like lions, leopards, and jaguars can also respond to catnip, suggesting the sensitivity predates domestication. If your cat doesn't react to catnip, silver vine (Actinidia polygama) is an alternative that affects some catnip-insensitive cats.

Is catnip safe?

Completely. There's no evidence that catnip is addictive, toxic, or harmful in any way. Cats self-regulate their exposure; the effect wears off after about 10 minutes, and most cats will walk away and become temporarily immune to it for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Eating small amounts of catnip is also safe, though large quantities might cause mild stomach upset. It's one of the few substances you can give your cat purely for their enjoyment with zero downside.