Whisker Trip Catnip

Catnip is a species of plant that cats go crazy for. The key is nepetalactone, the chemical in catnip buds and leaves that causes a euphoric reaction in felines. You may observe your cat sniffing, licking or eating the nip’, leading to rolling, pawing, and vocalizing to their heart’s content. Some cats react more passively, assuming a blissed-out, sphinx-like posture filled with pure satisfaction. Read more about catnip here.

Just like humans, cats need a variety of enrichment in their lives to provide them with a well-rounded, blissful existence. While catnip doesn’t have any proven medical benefits, the benefits to felines’ mental health shouldn’t be understated! Depending on the cat, catnip may offer a calming sensation to reduce their stress and anxiety, especially when combined with valerian root. Catnip lowers their inhibitions and may encourage your couch potato to exercise and play more, helping keep them healthy and young.  

Most kittens under 6 months old aren’t quite ready to take that trip. Your cat may need to mature a bit before they’re ready to open their mind. If you still find that your grown cat isn’t reacting to catnip, they may be part of the special 30% of cats that lack the gene that causes cats to respond to catnip. But don’t wig out! Your cat can still have an experience all their own. Many felines that aren’t drawn to the nip’ will go crazy for other herbs like silvervine or valerian root - which is why we offer specific strains highlighting these groovy substances!

While most cats are intuitive creatures capable of knowing their own limit, we all get carried away now and again! You know how they say to never take the second edible? Instead of getting higher, cats actually develop a tolerance to catnip directly after exposure that may last for a few hours. A little sprinkle is more than enough and your feline friend should never need more than a tablespoon of catnip in one sitting.

We recommend only providing your cat with catnip under supervision, and making sure to store it away somewhere safe while you’re gone just as you would your other…. herbs… (though do NOT store them in the same place!) Most cats who accidentally overindulge in catnip because they love the taste will only experience minor stomach upset, though it’s important to make sure this is not a regular occurrence and contact your veterinarian if you are ever worried about your cat’s health. 

Felines are less drawn to dried-out old bud. Aren’t we all? The 100% organic catnip we source is always fresh, harvested from the current or previous growing season. Once that precious nip’ makes its way into your cat’s paws, we recommend enjoying it within a year. While it doesn’t expire, potency will fade with time. Good thing we’ve got refills to always keep your stock fresh and fab!

While catnip is generally safe for human consumption, we recommend leaving the Whisker Trip to your cat. Don’t harsh their vibe, go find your own herbal release.