Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family, native to southern and eastern Europe, northern parts of the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Jan 31, 2025 · What is catnip? Dr. Heather Hoffmann discusses why cats like catnip, how catnip works, and how to give catnip to your cat.

May 7, 2025 · What is catnip? Veterinarians explain how it affects your cat and the science behind common behaviors like sniffing, eating, and rolling around in it.

Learn more about Catnip uses, effectiveness, possible side effects, interactions, dosage, user ratings and products that contain Catnip.

Jun 5, 2025 · Cats love even the smallest whiff of cat nip, but why? Learn from Purina cat behavior experts why cats like catnip and what effects it has on their body and health.

Jul 5, 2022 · Catnip contains nepetalactone, an essential oil found in the catnip plant. Here's how it affects your cat and why it makes them feel so good.

Sep 23, 2024 · Catnip contains an oil called nepetalactone that activates the parts of a cat's brain associated with scent, mood, and behavioral regulation. Catnip can put cats in a good mood, but it …

Dec 19, 2025 · Catnip, (Nepeta cataria), herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), noted for its aromatic leaves, which are particularly exciting to cats. Catnip is commonly grown by cat owners for their pets, …

Jun 17, 2025 · Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial plant that is a part of the mint family. It’s native to central Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and it’s sometimes called catnep, catsworth, or field balm.

Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, contains a compound called nepetalactone that triggers a unique reaction in cats' brains when sniffed or ingested. So, what exactly does catnip do to our …