Why Do Cats Like Catnip So Much – Is it Because it's Addictive?

August 30, 2024

Whisker City, CAT.

In this special investigative report for the Daily Mews, we uncover the shocking truth about catnip. To set the scene, let us first ask, 'What is catnip, and why do cats like catnip so much?'

Why Does Catnip Make Cats Crazy?

Catnip is a herb from the mint family, and its exclusive effects on cats are all about nepetalactone – a natural compound contained within that binds to cat-specific receptors in our noses, and triggers a unique surge of euphoria, often followed by a blissed-out, slightly dribbly snooze fest. But is there a downside?

Critics point to the fact that catnip only 'works' on 2/3 of cats – the rest don't have the so-called 'catnip gene' which makes them susceptible to its delicious effects. And that's true – but it's not the fault of catnip; it's just a tragic genetic flaw on the part of the unlucky 33.3%.

Others meanwhile try to claim that catnip is in fact bad for you, perhaps because in the human world, anything fun – sugar, wine, good broadband - has to come at a price. But high-quality catnip like Cat Crack (free hit) is 100% natural (meaning no pesticides or genetic modification) and 100% non-toxic. So it's not harmful, and you can't, as some claim, OD on it. The worst thing that catnip can do to you if you have too much, is make you feel a little groggy and give you a mild upset tummy. It's a natural supplement, so it's a bit like a human drinking too much prune juice, or accidentally taking a few too many multi-vitamins. In fact, not only is catnip not bad for you, while it certainly does 'bring the fun,' it's also actively good for cats. Catnip has numerous health benefits, increasing our physical and mental well-being by encouraging movement, exercising our imagination, and reducing anxiety.

With these myths debunked then, you'd think that would be it – that we'd just be left to get on with enjoying catnip. But now, fun-busters and misery guts across Whisker Land have come up with a new criticism of catnip: that the best products like Cat Crack (free hit) are so irresistible, they must be addictive. Hence, the opening last year of the Whisker City Cat Crack Addiction Center.

Inside the Cat Crack Addiction Center: The Shocking Truth Revealed

In a ground-breaking exposé, last month one of our roving reporters (whose identity must remain a secret to enable future investigations) put on his most desperate face, and went undercover as a would-be patient inside this sparkling new billion dollar facility. The clinic is funded by the charity, Conservative Cats of Whisker Land. 'Addicts' get free treatment, staying until they are 'cured.' This was the basis on which our 'patient' approached the clinic.

Rumors of wild-eyed felines twitching in corners, desperately craving their next hit of catnip, have swirled since the day it opened its doors. But what he actually discovered inside was truly shocking. Because it turns out, the so-called Cat Crack Addiction Center is nothing more than a luxury spa, with lucky cats lounging around on plush cushions, purring contentedly, and batting lazily at dangling feather toys. Not a twitchy whisker or dilated pupil in sight.

Do Cats Get High on Catnip?

Absolutely. There's no denying this. When cats sniff cat nip, the active compound nepetalactone binds to receptors in their noses, triggering a temporary sense of euphoria, and an overwhelming urge to zoom. But inside the clinic, secret recordings reveal how doctors admit that contrary to the rumors, catnip – even the highest potency stuff you can get, Cat Crack – does not cause addiction. When secretly asked about its addictiveness, lead clinician Dr Paws For-Thought said:

'Cats love it, yes, but the effects are short-lived, lasting only 10 to 15 minutes before they lose interest. And after that brief high, it's back to business as usual: time for a nap. Cats won't develop a dependency on catnip or indeed withdrawal symptoms, because every test we've conducted shows catnip is non-addictive.'

It's good news. That cat you know who appears to enjoy catnip a bit too much, is in fact just engaging in some innocent, harmless fun – and they certainly won't be pawning your valuables any time soon, just for one more hit of the good stuff. When asked if the more you use catnip, the more you want it, Dr Paws For-Thought said:

'No – not at all. In fact, frequent exposure to catnip can actually lead to temporary immunity, making it less effective. This is why some humans ration it out, ensuring their feline friends get the full effect each time. We may hate them for it, but it's actually a good thing.'

Can Cats Get Addicted to Catnip?

No. The Cat Crack Addiction Center isn't a rehab clinic at all – it's a place, paid for by fearmongering fools with deep pockets, where some of the luckiest cats in Whisker Land are indulging in their love of nature's happy herb, free of charge, in a luxurious, pampered environment. You even get free high-end toiletries. Far from being addicts, these cats are merely enthusiastic connoisseurs of 'kitty cannabis'. Frankly, we have reason to be jealous, but who can blame them for seizing on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, knowing that it won't last forever.

And at least, for those at home who are worried that they, or a cat they know, may be headed down a dangerous path towards Cat Crack addiction, you may now relax – catnip is just happy, harmless fun. It's a 100% natural herb that makes us feel great and has numerous health benefits besides. It has no addictive qualities whatsoever, we just love it because it's great!

Want to read about catnip use in other countries? Check out our article Catnip: Effects on Cats Around the World.

To hear what vets say about catnip, check out this summary.