Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family, native to southern and eastern Europe, northern parts of the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Jan 31, 2025 · What is catnip? Dr. Heather Hoffmann discusses why cats like catnip, how catnip works, and how to give catnip to your cat.

May 7, 2025 · What is catnip? Veterinarians explain how it affects your cat and the science behind common behaviors like sniffing, eating, and rolling around in it.

Apr 6, 2025 · Catnip's allure is in its volatile oil, specifically one chemical in that oil -- nepetalactone. Found in catnip's leaves, stems, and seeds, it only takes one or two sniffs of that wondrous oil...

Oct 29, 2025 · Catnip is a natural herb that acts like pheromones to stimulate various pleasure centers of your cat’s brain when inhaled. Most cats respond well to it, showing vocalization, licking, playing, …

Nov 7, 2025 · Catnip, (Nepeta cataria), herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), noted for its aromatic leaves, which are particularly exciting to cats. Catnip is commonly grown by cat owners for their pets, …

Oct 1, 2025 · Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial plant that can be easily cultivated across most of North America. Recognizable by its square stems and triangular to oval, gray-green leaves, catnip …

Sep 23, 2024 · Catnip contains an oil called nepetalactone that activates the parts of a cat's brain associated with scent, mood, and behavioral regulation. Catnip can put cats in a good mood, but it …

Jun 17, 2025 · Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial plant that is a part of the mint family. It’s native to central Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and it’s sometimes called catnep, catsworth, or field balm.

Jun 6, 2025 · What is catnip? Catnip is a member of the mint family and contains a compound called nepetalactone, which affects cats through their olfactory system (sense of smell).