What happens when cats have catnip?

Cats after consuming catnip are a sight to behold, but have you ever wondered about the science behind their strange behaviour?

Catnip is a short-lived, perennial, herbaceous plant containing the feline attractant nepetalactone, known for its behavioural effects on the cat family. And not just on domestic cats, but also other species, too.

In fact, several tests showed leopards, cougars, servals and lynxes often reacted as strongly to catnip as domestic cats. As for lions and tigers, while they can react strongly as well, they do not react as consistently.

Common behaviors cats display when they sense the bruised leaves or stems of catnip, are rubbing on the plant, rolling on the ground, pawing at it, licking it and chewing it. Consuming much of the plant is followed by drooling, sleepiness, anxiety, leaping about and purring. Some cats growl, meow, scratch, or bite at the hand holding it.

The main response period after exposure is generally between 5-15 minutes, after which olfactory fatigue usually sets in.

View the original video here.

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