Catnip (catnip): description of the plant and application, where it grows

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A plant that has a similar effect on cats as valerian is called catnip.

What is it for? It is used to correct the pet’s behavior, and also as a sedative, or, on the contrary, a nerve receptor stimulant.

Its second name is lemon catnip.

This herb has a special, spicy smell that cats really like.

Even in Ancient Egypt, catnip was used as bait for both ordinary domestic cats and wild felines - panthers, leopards.

By the way, the toyger , savannah and bengal cat are considered small copies of real wild animals, and many exotic lovers are happy to have such an obstinate cat at home.

Cats love the smell of catnip

  • 2 Why do cats love catnip?
  • 3 How can you use catnip?
  • 4 Growing catnip at home
  • 5 Can I give catnip to a pregnant cat?

Contraindications and restrictions

Veterinarians do not recommend giving catnip to pregnant females. Under the influence of essential oil, the animal may experience severe agitation. This quickly depletes the cat's nervous system. Stress during pregnancy has an extremely negative impact on the condition of the mother of the offspring. Before the kittens appear, it is better to remove the pot with the plant. However, it is worth taking into account the animal’s intuitive sense. If your cat goes outside and starts sniffing mint, you shouldn’t stop her from doing so.

Another contraindication is the animal’s uncontrolled behavior after eating grass. If a cat, after eating or sniffing, becomes agitated and aggressive or falls into a stupor, you should not give it grass.

How is it different from regular and other types?

The difference between catnip and regular mint has long been known; this is the difference in the essential oils that are included in its composition. There are many types of mint and below we will look at a few of them.

Plant heightEssential oilApplicationHabitat
Cat mintfrom 40 – 100 cmNepetalactone
  • Ethnoscience.
  • Perfumery.
  • Cooking.
  • Vacant lands.
  • Forest glades.
  • Slopes along the roads.
Peppermintfrom 30 – 100 cmMenthol
  • Pharmacology.
  • Medicine.
  • Cooking.
Gardens
Lemon Balmfrom 30 – 120 cmCitral
  • Ethnoscience.
  • Cooking.
  • Shady ravines.
  • Gorges.
Homemade mintfrom 20 – 60 cmPulegon
  • Perfumery.
  • Confectionery production.
  • Ethnoscience.
  • Meadows.
  • River banks.

There are many differences between catnip and other species; some types of mint are used in medicine, and some even in perfumery.

Types of catnip

Catnip is sold in pet supply stores and comes in different forms.

Tablets and vitamins

An excellent addition to cat food are tablets and vitamins that contain catnip. They have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and enrich the body with useful substances. The smell of nepetalactone encourages the cat to eat the whole complex of vitamins with pleasure.

You can easily purchase fortified treats in specialized stores. Various manufacturers offer their products.

Vitamins with catnip

Sprays and drops

Products with a fairly long shelf life are sprays and drops for cats. They are used to attract pets to the required place. These substances can be sprayed as needed.

Incense sticks for chewing

If it is difficult for your cat to get used to brushing its teeth, then a chewing stick with mint will come to the rescue. Over time, you can use regular remedies.

As part of scented toys

Scented toys contain the scent of cat weed. They are very attractive to furry pets. When purchasing, you should study the label. It is good that only leaves and flowers are used when filling, and not tough stems. Low-quality fillers only add volume and do not have the desired effect.

Toys with grass sewn inside can be very different in shape and color. For example, mice, balls, bananas, etc. They promote active play of animals.

Soap bubbles with an extract of mint essential oils are also intended for the game.

Over time, the smell of catnip weakens. To ensure that your animal continues active play with its favorite toy, you can spray mint on it in the form of a spray. The cat will again react to the forgotten item and show keen interest.

You can buy quality weed in bulk and fill the toys with it yourself. You should beware of tough plant stems, especially if your cat likes to chew on them. The animal may get hurt.

Experienced breeders advise buying several fur mice and placing them in a container with grass from time to time. The toys will acquire the smell of real mint, and cats will be happy to play with them.

Toys for cats

Additional Information! There are many different types of catnip. If desired, it can be grown at home on a windowsill or in the garden. The plant is unpretentious, quickly accepted, and reproduces well. Seedlings can be bought at the market or in a specialty store.

Catnip will be fun for your pet on a walk. The owners can have fun watching his behavior. Please note that the plant will also attract neighboring cats.

Reviews

Indeed, this herb works wonders for cats. It’s very good to take it with you on the road when you go to an exhibition.

Asia

https://mauforum.ru/viewtopic.php?f=37&t=3273&start=10

Catnip is “catnip.” The effect of “catnip” begins in the animal with euphoria, and then turns into a burst of energy. Cats should not eat it. Contains hallucinogens.

Nina and Britney

https://www.britishcat.ru/forumnew/printthread.php?t=3632&pp=40

The herb is harmless when ingested by an animal. It is a common component of cat toys, applications for scratching posts, beds, and play complexes. However, you shouldn’t get carried away - for the maximum effect, there should be a little bit of weed - just a pinch for the mood.

Prado

https://mainecoon-forum.ru/archive/index.php/t-40058.html

I bought a bag a very long time ago, wiped some toys - the children didn’t care

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