Why do cats eat cat nip?

Answer 1

Catnip is almost like a drug. It's like getting "high" but for cats. There's a particular chemical that triggers this reaction in their brains when they sniff it. However, it is not really known why it effects cats in the way it does, but it is due to a chemical called Nepetalactone that is released from the plant when a cat rubs, chews or otherwise "bruises" the leaves.

Some cats aren't affected by catnip, and btw, some big cats are affected by it. It can also relieve stress and nervousness in cats.

Answer 2

AnswerWell, catnip has a smell to it that cats tend to love a lot.

It has this smell. That only cats can smell and it tends attract them to it and try to open it so they can smell more of it.

It's like you getting high on drugs.
i think it has somehing to do with mice.

Cats love cat-nip so much because is made from an herb that releases a chemical, when broken or crushed, called Nepetalactone. This chemical causes the organ that controls a cat's senses to become very reactive, and can make it over-react to things like light, smell, and taste.

Answer 3

Even though cats go crazy and some even seem drugged around catnip it's not a drug. It's actually an herb that belongs to the mint family. When the leaves are broken it releases a certain chemical that most cats respond to.

All cats respond differently to catnip. Some of them walk away cuz they couldn't care less, but others go ape. The cats that do go crazy are responding to the active ingredient in catnip called Nepetalactone. The reaction to this chemical is caused by the organ that operates a cat's five senses (touch, smell, sight, sound and taste.)

Those cats that do react will eat it or lick it; some roll in it and others just sniff it. The catnip reaction is inherited so not all of them respond. Young kittens and old cats rarely respond although large cats like tigers will. If your cat's behavior doesn't change around catnip it's nothing to worry about. About 10 to 30 percent of cats don't go berserk over catnip.

Catnip is completely safe and isn't addictive to cats so give your feline friend a treat like Catnip Puffs every now and then. The most amusing thing about giving cats catnip is the behavior change. Although it's safe, keep in mind you can have too much of a good thing. If a cat eats lots of fresh catnip it could puke or have diarrhea but this is rare. If it does happen don't give your cat as much catnip or any at all.

Answer 4

It is not known exactly what happens to a cats brain when exposed to catnip. However we know the chemical known as Nepetalactone is what triggers a response from the cat.

Not all cats will react to Catnip and it seems to be a inherited trait.

Answer 5

Not all cats like catnip, but some do. Catnip is like Kitty Coffee - it makes them have lots of energy and run around rolling all over it. Some cats almost get drunk on catnip. Also, kittens just love chasing things all over the place. Playing helps them learn hunting skills like pouncing and chasing.

Answer 6

Yes my male cats seem to get high off cat nip

Answer 7

It sort of stimulates their senses. It also makes them hyper.

Answer 8

Because of the smell