Gray tabby cat lying on her side, with catnip scattered around her and tongue sticking slightly out

What Does Catnip Do to Cats?

Catnip can do so much more than make your cat go wild. From inducing a safe and non-addictive euphoric state to repelling mosquitoes, catnip is a wonder herb! Don’t forget to roll it between your fingers to release the nepetalactone oil before presenting it to your kitties.

The following video — which includes catnip toys from our online Best Friends Store — explains catnip's function and what it does for cats.

Issues:

Tags:

Cats

All About Cats: Behavior and Training Tips and Resource Videos

Cats rule! Watch Samantha Bell, cat expert for Best Friends Animal Society, share feline tips, resources, and fun facts.

Be our Best Friend

Best Friends Animal Society is working with you to save the lives of cats and dogs all across the country, giving pets second chances and happy homes.

Just a few short years ago, cats and dogs were killed in staggering numbers in this country simply because shelters didn't have the community support or the resources to save their lives. That number is now less that half a million per year, but there's still work to do to ensure a bright future for every dog and cat in America.

Best Friends operates the nation's largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals and is committed to saving the lives of homeless pets by working with shelters and passionate people like you. Together, we will bring the whole country to no-kill in 2025. Together, we will Save Them All.