Cats and Catnip: Understanding the Love Affair and the Best Catnip Products

catnip

Have you ever wondered why your cat goes crazy for catnip? In this article, we're exploring the fascinating relationship between cats and catnip, and we'll introduce some of the best catnip products on the market.

What is Catnip?

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the mint family. Its allure for cats lies in an essential oil called nepetalactone found in the leaves and stems of the plant. This chemical triggers a strong behavioral reaction in cats, often characterized by sniffing, rubbing, rolling, and general hyperactivity.

Why Do Cats Love Catnip?

The response to catnip is hereditary, and about two-thirds of cats are affected by it. The reaction appears to be a kind of feline euphoria, similar to how humans respond to certain mood-altering substances. Notably, kittens and senior cats typically do not respond to catnip.

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Yes, catnip is safe for cats. In fact, it is often used in toys and treats as a way to encourage play and exercise. However, like anything, it should be used in moderation. Too much exposure can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset or, in rare cases, lead to excessive excitement or aggression.

Top Catnip Products

1. Catnip Toys

Catnip-filled toys can provide hours of entertainment and exercise for your cat. There are numerous options on the market, from plush mice to crinkly balls, all filled with enticing catnip.

Catnip Toys

2. Catnip Spray

This product is great for refreshing old toys or encouraging your cat to use certain items, like a scratching post or a new bed. Just a spritz or two is usually enough to pique your cat's interest.

Catnip Spray

3. Catnip Treats

These edible goodies are often used for training or as a special reward. However, they should be given sparingly to prevent your cat from consuming too many calories.

Catnip Treats

4. Catnip Plant

For a more natural option, consider growing a catnip plant. It can serve as a constant source of entertainment for your cat and double as an attractive addition to your home.

Catnip Plants

Remember, every cat's reaction to catnip can differ, and what excites one might not interest another. Use catnip as a tool to bond with your cat and bring more fun into their life, but always monitor their reactions to ensure it's a positive experience.


How to Train Your Cat - Litter training, leash walking, and more

cat on leash

Contrary to popular belief, cats are quite trainable. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can teach your cat a variety of useful and fun behaviors. In this article, we'll cover the basics of litter training, leash walking, and more.

The Role of Probiotics in Feline Health: Why Your Cat Might Need a Supplement

Just like humans, cats have a complex community of bacteria living in their gut, referred to as the microbiome. These bacteria play an essential role in your cat's overall health, impacting everything from digestion to immunity. This is where probiotics come in. In this article, we will explore the role of probiotics in feline health and why your cat might benefit from a supplement.

Got Cat Allergies? How To Cope

woman sneezing

If you or a loved one is allergic to cats but can't imagine life without your feline friend, there are many steps you can take to reduce allergens and make your home more comfortable. There are also several products available that can help to control allergens in your home.

Cat Health 101: Common Issues

Cats can experience a range of health issues, some more common than others. Understanding these problems and knowing what products can help is crucial in ensuring your feline friend stays happy and healthy.


PURRFECT PLAY: Catnip is pure fun! In a 2-ounce resealable canister, it attracts cats to toys and scratchers. This natural, non-addictive herb stimulates mental & physical health, leading to bursts of energy followed by calm relaxation.
PAWSOME FUN: Catnip is pure fun! Packaged in a 2-ounce resealable canister to ensure freshness, it attracts cats to toys & scratchers. This non-addictive herb stimulates playfulness & relaxation, making it an essential addition to your kitty’s routine!
CATTITUDE UNLEASHED: Catnip stimulates cats through nepetalactone, promoting playful behaviors, encouraging hunting instincts, boosting exercise, fostering social bonds, and reducing stress. It enhances fun and beneficial behaviors in cats!
CATNIP & CHILL: Catnip is a magical treat for cats! A quick whiff can spark a playful frenzy, leading to 10-15 minutes of blissful fun before they nap. It’s the perfect way to keep their spirits high and their hearts happy!
SMARTYKAT: We craft innovative, durable & safe cat products worldwide. Our Complete Needs System provides stylish & practical solutions to meet your cat’s emotional, instinctual & physical needs, all with a focus on quality and safety.
$5.93
Ships with Prime
In Stock
𝗣𝗒𝗣 π—¦π—’π— π—˜ 𝗣𝗒𝗣𝗖𝗒π—₯𝗑: because you’ll have a ring-side seat to the greatest show on earth. One hit from our cat crack gives cats a buzz that fuels a feline acrobatic frenzy.
π—§π—›π—œπ—¦ 𝗖π—₯π—”π—–π—ž π—œπ—¦π—‘'𝗧 π—”π——π——π—œπ—–π—§π—œπ—©π—˜: since it is Non-GMO and 100% natural. Cat Crack is made cleanly and reliably in North America with fair labor standards.
π—ͺπ—˜'π—©π—˜ π—šπ—’π—§ π—§π—›π—˜ π—šπ—’π—’π—— 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗙𝗙: with a 78%+ Nepetalactone content. It’s the highest and most potent kitty dope commercially available.
𝗙π—₯π—˜π—¦π—› 𝗔𝗦 𝗔 π——π—œπ— π—˜ π—•π—”π—š: from climate controlled storage and sealed under the lid. Neighborhood cats are sure to appreciate this if being used for some under the hood gifts for cats.
𝗑𝗒𝗧 𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗙𝗒π—₯ π—£π—Ÿπ—”π—¬: Cat Crack can be used for cat training similar to regular cat treats and kitten treats. Introduce new cat accessories by sprinkling some Cat Crack on them. Optionally, Cat Crack can supplement a catnip ball or catnip spray.
$13.99
Ships with Prime
In Stock
Made with only the best parts of the catnip plant, our Zoom Around the Room Oraganic Catnip contains only the leaf & flower
Zoom on, little floor muffins! This fantastic catnip can be added to your kitty's favorite toy or just given to them as a treat
Keep it fresh! This organic catnip comes in a zip-sealed plastic bag for a longer shelf life
Revive old cat toys by rubbing a pinch of catnip right on the toy or simply shake toys in a bag with catnip to bring out that new scent; also works on scratching posts
Bag contains 0.5 ounces of 100% organic catnip and safe for all cat life stages
Enjoying FAT CAT? Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens & other small furry friends! Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm & Hammer, Booda, Chuckit!, Jackson Galaxy, JW toys & more!
1/2-Ounce
$2.98
Ships with Prime
In Stock
βœ… PURE & NATURAL – Grown without pesticides or additives, our catnip is harvested at peak potency, dried with care, and is processed in climate controlled facilities for a clean, natural choice for your cat’s wellbeing.
βœ… IRRESISTIBLE AROMA CATS LOVE – Naturally high in essential oils (nepetalactone), The Cat’s MeWow catnip delivers a powerful, lasting scent that engages your cat’s senses. A small sprinkle encourages playful bursts of energy followed by calm, content relaxation.
βœ… RESPONSIBLY GROWN IN NORTH AMERICA – Sourced from trusted farms in the USA and Canada, our catnip is cultivated with care to ensure consistent freshness, safety, and strength in every jar.
βœ… ENRICHMENT MADE SIMPLE – Use it to refresh toys, attract your cat to scratchers or beds, or simply as a treat to enhance daily enrichment. It’s an easy, natural way to support healthy activity and reduce boredom.
βœ… FRESHNESS YOU CAN SEE & SMELL – Packaged in a resealable, light-blocking jar to maintain peak freshness and potency from first use to last.
βœ… VETERAN-OWNED & SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE – The Cat’s MeWow is a small family business founded by two Air Force veterans. We believe in fair pay (our founder is the lowest-paid employee!), and with every purchase, we provide meals for shelter cats through local cat rescues.
$9.99 ($1.25 / Ounce)
$13.99 ($1.75 / Ounce)
Ships with Prime
In Stock
Perfect Harmony: Experience our Ultimate Blend, a premium mix of Silver Vine and our signature all-natural catnip, guaranteed to delight your cat.
American Quality: Proudly made in the USA, ensuring high-quality, safe playtime for your beloved pets. A perfect addition to enhance your indoor cat's playtime and toy collection.
Dual Delight: Combines the euphoric effects of Silver Vine with the enticing aroma of catnip, perfect for cats who are typically indifferent to catnip alone.
Rich in Natural Oils: Packed with essential oils and blooming with natural Nepetalactone, our catnip is fresh, powerful, and perfect for easing stress, promoting healthy exercise, and supporting your cat's mental health.
CAPTIVATE YOUR CAT with aromatic From the Field Catnip. Fresh, potent and non-toxic, it gives your feline a euphoric feeling that may help ease stress and encourage exercise for overall well-being.
$8.49
Ships with Prime
In Stock
Cats Lose Their Cool: Just shake the pack, and your favorite feline will come running for their favorite cat treats.
Purr-fect Texture: Cat treats are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it the cat snack that keeps them coming back.
Under 2 Calories Per Treat: Each cat treat is under 2 calories, so these little crunchy goodies make the perfect snack or reward that can be given daily.
Trifecta of Tempting Cat Treats: Catnip Fever is a delicious cat snack with a mix of chicken, catnip, and cheese flavors your cat will love.
Value-Sized, Resealable Tub: Treat ’em again and again using the resealable tub that is perfect for keeping cat paws off when you’re not watching.
$8.48 ($0.53 / Ounce)
Ships with Prime
In Stock
PREMIUM NATURAL CATNIP: Love watching your pet go into a pawing, purring tizzy? Kitty City Catnip is just the thing you need, and it's made with all natural ingredients to give you peace of mind.
GET MORE PLAY OUT OF CAT TOYS: Catnip toys tend to last for a week or two before they lose your cat's interest. Give them new life with a refresh of all-natural catnip any time they need some attention-holding help.
ENDLESS USES: With plenty of catnip to use, you can refresh toys for months on end, train your cat to love his scratch pad – instead of scratching up your furniture – or fuel any fun projects you've had in mind to entertain your pet
SIZE OF 2.5 CUPS: With 2.5 cups of all-natural catnip, you can keep the fun going for months on end. And it all comes in a resealable bag to preserve the freshness. Store the bag in a cool, dry place for maximum lifespan.
NATURAL: It's all-natural catnip to drive your cat wild.
Age range description: All Life Stages
$5.94
$6.99
Ships with Prime
In Stock
CAPTIVATE YOUR CAT with aromatic From the Field Catnip. Fresh, potent and non-toxic, it gives your feline a euphoric feeling that may help ease stress and encourage exercise for overall well-being.
SMOOTH, STALKLESS cat nip has been finely ground to a velvety texture from mature cat grass. From the Field Catnip is packed with full-bodied essential oils and blooms that contain natural Nepetalactone.
GROWN IN THE USA in picturesque Washington State, our catnip offers safe cat entertainment. It can be used to refresh your pet’s favorite catnip toys or as a non-calorie alternative to cat treats.
FRESH AND POTENT From the Field Catnip comes in a resealable container to prolong its powerful effects. A pinch provides hours of fun and dissuades your cat from shredding furniture out of boredom.
FOR ALL AGES of kittens and cats, our enthralling cat nip is a must-have addition to new kitten accessories. Promoting physical activity, it also belongs among your cat essentials for indoor cats.
$18.99
Ships with Prime
In Stock
100% NATURAL & ORGANIC: Freshly grown, guaranteeing the highest ORGANIC cat nip quality with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
CATS LOVE: Sprinkle any amount, and watch your Kitty's favorite toy, bed or scratch post, and watch them purr, roll, meow and play for hours!
HARVESTED FRESH: Planted, grown and harvested at the highest peak of season, ensuring best plant quality for essential oil.
HEALTHY: Turn your tired, old and worn out Kitten into an excited playmate with a great form of exercise!
UNIQUE EXTRACT: Proprietary herb blend will last longer and stay fresher, giving your Kitty a better long lasting experience.
$9.99
$12.99
Ships with Prime
In Stock
Fresh and Potent: Packed with premium leaf and flower cut for a highly aromatic, long-lasting catnip experience.
Proudly Made and Grown in the USA: Ensuring top-quality, safe catnip for your feline companion.
Convenient Resealable Tub: Keeps your catnip fresh for longer, easy to store and use.
Leaf and Flower Cut: A balanced mix of leaves and flowers for maximum potency.
Promotes Healthy Exercise: Encourages active play and mental stimulation, keeping cats entertained and fit.
$11.99
Ships with Prime
In Stock