Having studied organic farming, I enjoy trying out new cultivation methods and other gardening experiments with friends in our community garden. I care deeply about exploring sustainable and mindful approaches to working with nature. This is my biggest passion, but I am also a real ornamental plant enthusiast! Favourite fruit: strawberry, mango, guava Favourite vegetables: artichoke, tomato, rocket
Catmint does not bear its name for nothing. Here, you will learn why cats are so crazy about the herb and how catmint is used.
Most people know that catmint (Nepeta) has a very special effect on cats. But why the herb is so irresistible for cats and what else catmint can be used for is not known to many. In this article, we will tell you how and why catnip has such an impact on cats and how you can use catmint in the kitchen as well as a remedy.
Catmint, also known as catnip or nepeta, has a legendary ability to send cats into a frenzied, euphoric state. But why exactly are cats so attracted to this aromatic herb? As a cat owner and gardener, I set out to get to the bottom of this quirky plant-cat relationship.
A Potent, Intoxicating Aroma
The key factor drawing cats to catmint is its powerful minty aroma. Catmint contains a chemical called nepetalactone which mimics feline pheromones when inhaled by cats. This binds to receptors in their nose, triggering a response in their brain that alters their behavior.
Simply put, for cats, catmint smells like cat sex hormones! This provokes an intense neurological and physical reaction similar to them entering a euphoric or “high” state.
When exposed to catmint cats exhibit these temporary behaviors
- Rolling, rubbing, and writhing ecstatically on the plant
- Licking, chewing, even eating the leaves and stems
- Foaming at the mouth and drooling due to excessive salivation
- Dilated pupils and twitching ears
- Hyperactivity, erratic jumping, frenzied running
- Vocalizing or meowing strangely
- Play aggression and attack behaviors
This catmint craze lasts 5-15 minutes before kitty returns to normal But many return for more! It’s easy to see why catmint sends cats into such a tizzy.
A Centuries-Old Feline Fascination s have documented cats reacting strongly to catmint for centuries. Across Europe in the 1600s, cats were often described as acting bizarrely around certain herb patches, earning it the name “cataria” meaning cat.
Legend even says British cat gardens included catmint solely for feline entertainment! Today over 50% of domestic cats inherit a gene making them susceptible to catmint’s effects. Even big cats like lions and leopards respond to it.
Clearly, the unique catmint-cat intoxication has mutually fascinated both species for eons. While catmint holds no appeal for humans – we lack the receptors – its funny effects on cats have earned this herb a permanent place in many gardens.
Maximizing the Catmint-Cat Connection
If you want some cat entertainment or a hilarious viral video, add catmint to your garden! This carefree perennial thrives in zones 3-8 and full sun. It reaches 1-3 feet tall on slender stems with gray-green leaves. Tubular lavender-blue flowers bloom spring through fall.
For vigorous growth, plant young nursery catmint plants in spring. Seek out varieties specifically known to excite cats. Site catmint beds or borders in full view of windows and patios for prime feline access.
Trim catmint after initial flowering for a second bloom. Also prune in late fall to shape plants. This tough plant spreads easily, filling in spaces and mingling beautifully with other herbs, perennials and annuals.
If allowing your cat to enjoy catmint isn’t possible, grow it out of reach in pots or hanging baskets. You can also use fencing, cat deterrent sprays, or decoy plants like lavender to divert cats away from the catmint. With some creativity, you can safely enjoy catmint’s beauty without the chaos!
More Than Just Catnip
Beyond being “kitty crack”, catmint has many other merits too. Its airy texture and bee-friendly blooms add lovely visual interest to gardens. As a bonus, it’s deer and rabbit resistant. The minty aroma and flavor are great for teas, seasonings, and potpourri as well.
For an amusing, carefree plant that doubles as environmental enrichment for cats, look no further than nepeta cataria! Let your cats delight in its intoxicating scent and exhibit their wild side. Share the hilarious reactions on social media for endless entertainment. Most of all, revel in the magical garden chemistry between cats and their favorite feline-frenzy herb.
Effects of catmint
Catmint is a popular plant in our gardens, rooms or on the balcony. It belongs to the labiates family (Lamiaceae) and there are over 50 different species of catnip worldwide. Their flowers attract bees and other pollinators, plus they do well in perennial or scented beds. For us, the bushy plant with blue or white flowers pleasantly smells of lemon and mint. For cats, however, there seems to be more to the smell.
You want to know who’s behind Plantura?
Having studied organic farming, I enjoy trying out new cultivation methods and other gardening experiments with friends in our community garden. I care deeply about exploring sustainable and mindful approaches to working with nature. This is my biggest passion, but I am also a real ornamental plant enthusiast! Favourite fruit: strawberry, mango, guava Favourite vegetables: artichoke, tomato, rocket
Catmint does not bear its name for nothing. Here, you will learn why cats are so crazy about the herb and how catmint is used.
Most people know that catmint (Nepeta) has a very special effect on cats. But why the herb is so irresistible for cats and what else catmint can be used for is not known to many. In this article, we will tell you how and why catnip has such an impact on cats and how you can use catmint in the kitchen as well as a remedy.
Why are cats attracted to catmint?
FAQ
Does catmint attract cats to your yard?
Yes, catmint (Nepeta) can attract cats to your yard.
Do cats actually like catmint?
The plant seems to have a magical attraction for the animals. For most cats, catmint leads to a euphoric, hyperactive state.
What are the disadvantages of catmint?
What animals does catmint attract?
Bloom occurs from late spring into fall, with the small tubular flowers attracting hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and other insect pollinators. Catmint is drought tolerant and thrives on neglect, making it good for beginning gardeners, low-maintenance landscapes and water-wise borders.