Cats · Guide
Can Cats Eat Catnip?
Yes, a little catnip is fine, but a lot can upset your cat’s stomach. Here’s how catnip works, fresh vs. dried, and what to do if your cat eats too much.
Yes, cats can eat a little catnip. It is not a food, though. Nibbling a few leaves is usually fine. The main risk is stomach upset, like vomiting or diarrhea, if your cat eats a lot. Most cats react to the smell, not the taste.
What does catnip do to cats?
Catnip is a plant called Nepeta cataria. Its toxic principle, the ASPCA says, is a chemical called nepetalactone. The ASPCA notes that catnip can make some cats sleepy and others excited.
The Conversation explains that the chemical binds to receptors in a cat’s nose. That changes how the brain responds and gives the cat a pleasant feeling.
A research study on 100 cats found that the effect comes from the smell, not the taste. Cats in the study sniffed, licked and bit the catnip. They also shook their heads, rubbed their faces on it and rolled over.
Is catnip safe for cats?
Mostly, yes. The study authors say catnip is generally believed to be neither addictive nor harmful. The ASPCA still lists it as toxic to cats, because eating it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. That is a stomach problem, not a sign of deadly poison.
None of our sources gives a safe amount to eat. So keep servings small and watch your cat. If your cat gets sick, stop offering it.
How long does catnip last?
The effect usually lasts about 5 to 15 minutes, says The Conversation. Responses vary a lot between cats.
Why doesn’t my cat react to catnip?
Not every cat responds. About one in three adult cats do not. In the study, about 68% of cats reacted. Some older cats had milder reactions.
The study only tested cats six months or older. Our sources do not say how kittens react, so ask your vet if you are unsure.
How should I give my cat catnip?
The Conversation suggests offering catnip in a quiet place. Keep it away from where your cat sleeps and eats. Let your cat choose whether to play with it. Don’t push it on them.
Other kinds of catnip
Is dried catnip okay for cats?
Yes, a little. Dried catnip is the form sold in toys and cat products. The research study tested dried plant material, and cats responded to dried catnip. The same limit applies as with fresh: if your cat eats a lot, it may get an upset stomach.
Is fresh catnip okay for cats?
Yes, a little. The ASPCA’s entry is about the catnip plant itself, so the same stomach-upset warning applies to fresh leaves. Our sources don’t compare fresh and dried catnip, so we can’t say which is stronger. If you grow it, let your cat sniff and nibble a bit. Don’t let them eat the whole plant.
Can cats eat catnip itself, or only smell it?
The effect comes from smell. Cats may lick and bite it too. A few nibbles are normal. Eating a lot is where vomiting and diarrhea can start.
Other things to try
If your cat doesn’t react to catnip, a different plant may work. The cat study also tested silver vine, Tatarian honeysuckle and valerian. For other plants and foods to keep away from your cat, see our guide to foods that are toxic to cats.
Common questions
Is catnip addictive for cats?
A research study on cats says catnip is generally believed to be neither addictive nor harmful. The effect comes from the smell of the plant, not its taste.
How long does catnip last?
The effect usually lasts about 5 to 15 minutes, according to The Conversation. It varies from cat to cat.
Why does my cat not react to catnip?
About one in three adult cats do not respond to catnip. In one study of 100 cats, about 68% reacted. A cat that ignores it is normal.
Is catnip toxic to cats?
The ASPCA lists catnip as toxic to cats because it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. The signs it describes are stomach upset, not poisoning that threatens life.