Catnip (scientific name Nepeta cataria) is a gray-green plant from the mint family. It has thick stems and jagged heart-shaped leaves that are covered with fuzz. Originally native to Asia and Europe, catnip now grows wild in the countryside in many parts of the world.
Catnip is well known because domestic cats enjoy smelling, licking, chewing, rubbing, and rolling around in it. The plant puts our feline friends in a relaxed and joyful state such that a cat will drool, stretch, and become hyperactive or even slightly crazy.
This response to catnip is because of an ingredient called nepetalactone, an oil that attracts and triggers cats. Kittens under the age of 3 months don’t respond to catnip, and some adult cats are not sensitive to nepetalactone either. However, some big cats like lions and tigers will respond to catnip.
But what does catnip do to dogs?
Dogs do not usually “go crazy” or respond as strongly to catnip as cats. Many dogs have not response to the herb at all while others experience mild sedation with catnip.
Yes, catnip is non-toxic and safe for dogs. It acts as a sedative in dogs and makes them mellow. In contrast, catnip is a stimulant in cats.
Catnip can calm some dogs down. It can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. You can try giving your dog catnip if she is anxious before going to the vet, due to loud noises, or from being left alone at home, for example.
In addition, the nepetalactone oil in catnip contains many beneficial ingredients such as vitamins C and E, magnesium, tannins, essential oils, and flavonoids. It also acts as a natural antiseptic and bug repellent.
You should give a small dog no more than 1/8 teaspoon of catnip. Larger dogs can receive 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of catnip.
You can purchase catnip at a pet store. It’s available in the form of catnip treats and may be marketed as doggijuana in some stores.
Try mixing catnip sprinkles in your dog’s food and see if it has any benefits. Another way to give your dog catnip is by adding fresh catnip leaves to his drinking water. You can also apply fresh catnip leaves to minor cuts and scrapes. Catnip can serve as a repellent for fleas and mosquitoes.
Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog catnip or any other canine supplements. Some dogs may have a catnip allergy or medical condition that could be made worse by catnip. Your vet will also tell you how often it is safe to give your dog catnip.
Catnip is a mild sedative in dogs. It may help to put your dog to sleep if he is having trouble falling asleep. Again, remember that some dogs don’t respond to catnip at all. There is a great deal of variation in how dogs respond to the herb. But since it is safe and non-toxic, it may be worth trying.
If your dog responds to catnip, the effects will be seen within 30 minutes. So, if you are taking your dog to the vet and it makes her anxious, give her the catnip half an hour in advance.
Many people say anise is the catnip equivalent for dogs. Anise is a spice that tastes like licorice and comes from the parsley and carrot family. Dogs tend to respond to anise the same way cats respond to catnip – by going hyper. You can buy anise at your local pet store and use it as a treat on special occasions. However, be sure not to give your dog too much of anise (or catnip) as this can lead to health issues like stomach upset or nervous system problems.
05 December, 2022