Is Catmint Safe for Cats? Understanding This Mint Plant’s Effects
Catmint, also known as catnip, is a mint plant that elicits a unique response in many cats. The plant contains a chemical called nepetalactone which triggers a feline reaction ranging from mild interest to an almost narcotic ecstasy This well-known phenomenon has led to catmint being widely marketed as a safe and enjoyable treat for cats. However, some conflicting information has left cat owners wondering – is catmint truly safe for cats?
An Overview of Catmint
Catmint is a plant in the Nepeta genus, with the most commonly known species being Nepeta cataria. It is a perennial herb native to parts of Europe and Asia. The plant features green leaves with a fuzzy texture and small, lavender-colored flowers that bloom in the summer.
In addition to catmint and catnip, this plant also goes by other common names like catswort and catwort. All of these names refer to the same Nepeta cataria species.
Why Do Cats Love Catmint?
The nepetalactone compound in catmint binds to receptors in a cat’s olfactory epithelium, producing a stimulant effect. For most cats who respond to it catmint acts as an aphrodisiac of sorts, inducing a state of euphoria playfulness, and sensory overstimulation.
Approximately 75% of cats inherit genes making them susceptible to the effects of catmint. For these cats, simply smelling catmint can trigger the classic signs of fixation – drooling, head shaking, rolling, and excited vocalizing. Eating catmint produces an even more pronounced reaction.
However, just as some humans have a higher spice tolerance than others, not all cats are affected by catmint to the same degree. About 25% of cats inherit genes making them immune to nepetalactone and show no interest in catmint at all.
Is Catmint Toxic to Cats?
This is where things get complicated. Despite the name and cats’ obsession with it, some sources claim catmint and catnip are toxic plants.
The ASPCA includes both catmint and the related catnip species on its list of poisonous plants for cats. Specifically, they cite risks like vomiting, diarrhea, and central nervous system issues.
However, many cat owners report giving their cats catmint or catnip without any issues. There are a few factors that may explain this discrepancy:
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The ASPCA takes an intentionally cautious stance, classifying any plant with potential toxicity as poisonous. Their threshold for “toxic” is lower.
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Cats genetically prone to catmint addiction may consume more than cats with little interest. The dosage is key – small amounts are likely safe, while eating large quantities can cause problems.
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Catmint is toxic primarily when ingested. The risk is lower from smelling it vs eating it.
So catmint does contain a chemical, nepetalactone, that can cause adverse effects if consumed in large doses. But small amounts of catmint used as intended are safe for most cats to enjoy. Monitoring your cat’s reaction is advised when first introducing catmint.
Signs of Catmint Toxicity
If your cat does happen to eat too much catmint, watch for these symptoms of toxicity:
- Excessive vomiting/diarrhea
- Muscle tremors
- Agitation
- Drooling
- Lack of coordination
- Dilated pupils
Severe catmint toxicity can also lead to seizures, paralysis, and even death in extremely rare cases. Immediately contact your vet if toxicity symptoms develop after your cat eats catmint.
How to Use Catmint Safely
Here are some tips for making sure catmint remains an enticing yet safe treat for your cat:
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Supervise your cat any time catmint is provided to monitor reactions.
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Only give catmint in small amounts and for short durations of playtime. Limit treat sessions to 5-10 minutes.
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Never let your cat ingest essential oils containing catmint, as these are highly concentrated.
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Grow catmint in an outdoor garden that your cat cannot access at will. Indoor plants should be out of reach.
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Use cat toys that contain catmint securely sealed inside, rather than loose dried leaves. This prevents over-consumption.
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Consider cat toys with artificial catmint scent, as these pose no toxicity risk.
The Verdict on Catmint and Cats
At typical playtime doses, catmint is not harmful for most cats. But due to a small risk of toxicity if large amounts are eaten, catmint should be given carefully under supervision.
By using wise precautions, the majority of cats can continue to enjoy their beloved catmint safely. Just be sure to consult your vet before introducing it, monitor your cat’s reaction, and limit the quantity provided.
With some common sense, catmint can be a fun and stimulating treat that delights cats and their owners alike without endangering your cat’s health. Let the catmint craziness commence!
Catmint vs catnip: What’s the difference?
First of all, let’s be clear: the biggest difference between catmint and catnip is the fact they’re different plants. Although they are similarly named, belong to the mint family and come from the Nepetagenus of flowering plants, as detailed in the Science Advances journal, they are separate species.
Catmint is Nepeta mussinii and Catnip is Nepeta cataria. The lavender flowers of catmint make it a popular choice for garden beds. Catnip, on the other hand, looks more like a weed and has white flowers.
Compared to catnip, catmint flowers more often, and the leaves are often used in cooking because they taste like mint. Catnip, not like catmint, is often used to treat fevers, colds, cramps, and migraines. It can also be made into tea that cats or people can drink.
Catmint vs catnip: Which one do cats want?
You probably know the answer already. If you compare catnip to catmint, your cat will only choose catnip. Most cats can’t get enough of the lovely green stuff, whether it’s fresh catnip or the best catnip toys.
Cats are attracted to a compound in catnip leaves known as nepetalactone. It makes them want to eat the leaves and it gives them the euphoric high we humans find so hilarious. Although responses are affected by age, sex and early gonadectomy in male and female cats, as detailed in a study published in Behavioural Processes, the smell of catnip alone can trigger a whole host of amusing behavior.
You shouldn’t be worried if your cat goes crazy after eating catnip and starts to run around, lick or chew too much, shake their head, rub, roll, and salivate all over the place. All of these behaviors are known to happen when nepetalactone is present. That’s also why you should learn six creative ways to use catnip. It can be useful in many ways, such as for introducing cats to new things.
Even though catmint has nepetalactone in it, it’s in much smaller amounts. Some cats may still find it interesting, but it probably won’t be as exciting for them as catnip.
Best Perennials – Nepeta Cat’s Pajamas (Dwarf Catmint)
FAQ
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