Clearing Up the Mystery! What Exactly Is Catnip That Cats Are So Enchanted By?

Anyone who has seen videos of cats rolling on plants, biting leaves, chewing branches, or acting blissfully happy may wonder what this plant is. Many call it " catnip " but this name can be misleading, as it is not the kind of nettle that causes itching as commonly known.

Clarifying the mystery: What kind of plant is "catnip"?

Catnip (English: Acalypha indica) is a herbaceous plant in the Euphorbiaceae family, native to tropical Asia and Africa. It is commonly found along roadsides, wastelands, gardens, and agricultural plots, considered a widespread weed in Thailand.

Although often seen as just a weed, for many cats this plant is a favorite that makes them stop and approach it immediately. It has special qualities that attract cats to sniff, rub against, and roll on it with enjoyment. Its distinctive features include:

• The plant grows about 30-80 centimeters tall.
• Leaves are green, oval-shaped, with pointed tips and serrated edges.
• Flowers are small, green, and appear in clusters at leaf axils.
• It grows easily and is found throughout Thailand.

Why do cats like catnip?

Catnip, or Acalypha indica, contains certain volatile compounds that stimulate the olfactory system of cats, similar to the effects of catnip (Nepeta cataria) though the chemicals differ. When cats smell these compounds, they may display behaviors such as:

• Intensely sniffing the plant.
• Rubbing their face on the leaves or branches.
• Rolling around on the plant.
• Licking or biting the leaves.
• Making soft purring sounds.
• Appearing relaxed and temporarily more energetic.

However, not all cats respond, as sensitivity to these scents depends on genetics, similar to catnip, with some cats showing no reaction at all.

Is "catnip" safe for cats? Here's the clear answer.

Catnip is not harmful to cats; they can safely sniff or rub against it. The blissful behavior usually lasts about 5-15 minutes before normal behavior resumes. Still, certain precautions are advised:

• Avoid allowing cats to eat large amounts.
• If the plant has been sprayed with herbicides or pesticides, cats should not be allowed to touch it.
• If a cat vomits, becomes lethargic, or shows abnormal symptoms after contact, a veterinarian should be consulted.

What are the benefits of catnip beyond attracting cats?

Besides being favored by cats, catnip (Acalypha indica) is used in traditional medicine in several countries. Leaves, roots, or the whole plant are used in local wisdom as poultices, cough remedies, or expectorants. However, it should not be ingested or used medicinally without advice from medical professionals or experts.

In conclusion, " catnip " as commonly referred to is actually " Acalypha indica ", a herbaceous plant commonly found throughout Thailand. Though it may seem like an ordinary weed, it contains natural compounds that attract cats to sniff, rub, and roll happily, making it a plant of great interest among cat owners and animal lovers recently.