The Benefits of Catnip for Cats and Dogs

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is well known for its ability to send cats into a state of playful excitement or blissful relaxation. While it’s often seen as just a fun treat for cats, catnip actually offers a range of benefits beyond entertainment. Whether used for enrichment, training, or wellness, catnip can be a valuable addition to your pet’s life. And while cats are most commonly associated with catnip, dogs can also benefit from it in different ways.

1. Encourages Play and Exercise

Catnip stimulates a cat’s natural hunting and play instincts, encouraging:

• Increased activity and exercise
• Pouncing, chasing, and jumping behaviors
• Mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors

For dogs, catnip can also promote playfulness, though their reaction is typically much milder. Some dogs enjoy rolling in catnip or interacting with catnip-scented toys, helping to engage their senses.



2. Promotes Stress Relief and Relaxation

While some cats become hyperactive when exposed to catnip, others experience a calming effect. This makes catnip useful for:

• Reducing anxiety in stressful situations, such as vet visits or travel
• Easing tension in multi-cat households
• Helping shy or nervous cats feel more comfortable in new environments
For dogs, catnip has a primarily calming effect. It can help:
• Reduce travel anxiety
• Promote relaxation in high-energy or nervous dogs
• Encourage restful sleep when added to bedding



3. Aids in Training and Positive Reinforcement

Catnip can be used strategically to encourage good behavior. Try using it to:

• Attract your cat to scratching posts instead of furniture
• Encourage use of new bedding or carriers
• Reward and reinforce positive behaviors

For dogs, catnip can be sprinkled on toys or bedding to encourage calm behavior and create positive associations with certain spaces.



4. Supports Digestive Health

Catnip is a member of the mint family and has mild digestive benefits. Some cats may instinctively eat small amounts, which can help with:

• Mild digestive upset
• Gas and bloating relief
• Encouraging natural herbivore behaviors in small amounts
Dogs can also benefit from catnip’s mild digestive properties. It can:
• Soothe upset stomachs
• Act as a gentle appetite stimulant for picky eaters
• Reduce nausea in some dogs



5. Natural Pest Repellent

Beyond its benefits for pets, catnip also contains nepetalactone, a compound that naturally repels insects like mosquitoes and flies. Some pet owners use catnip-based sprays to deter pests without harmful chemicals.



How to Use Catnip

Catnip is available in various forms, including:

• Dried catnip – Sprinkled on toys, bedding, or scratching posts
• Catnip sprays – Ideal for furniture, beds, or carriers
• Fresh catnip plants – Great for nibbling and natural enrichment
• Catnip-stuffed toys – Provides long-lasting enjoyment

For dogs, catnip can be:

• Sprinkled in their bedding to promote relaxation
• Used in a tea to help with digestion or anxiety
• Added to treat recipes for a calming effect



Is Catnip Safe for All Pets?

Yes! Catnip is non-toxic and safe for both cats and dogs. However, not all felines or canines react to it. Sensitivity to catnip is genetic, with about 50-75% of cats showing a reaction. In dogs, the effects tend to be milder, but they can still enjoy its benefits in moderation.



Final Thoughts

Catnip isn’t just a fun treat for cats—it’s a powerful tool for enrichment, relaxation, and training for both cats and dogs. Whether your cat loves to zoom around after a sprinkle of catnip or your dog benefits from its calming properties, incorporating catnip into their routine can lead to a happier, healthier pet.

Want more tips on natural ways to support your pet’s well-being? Book a consultation today!

-Valerie San Nicolas CPCN