Cats are sensitive to smells. Some plants also act on them as a natural euphoriant and are known as catnip. The best known of these is catnip (Nepeta cataria) which is part of the mint family. Used as is or rubbed on a toy, it makes cats euphoric for about fifteen minutes. However, as each cat is different, it does not work on everyone! Indeed, only 50 to 70% of cats are susceptible to catnip. So, if your cat is indifferent to it, try one of the five plants below! Don’t worry, none of them will cause your little feline to become addicted.
1) The Silver Vine
Known as matatabi, the silver vine (Actinidia polygama) originated in Japan. 80% of cats are sensitive to this plant, which is much more than catnip! It contains many compounds that are attractive to felines, but the main active ingredient is actinidain.
Silver vine has attractive green and silver foliage. It reveals magnificent fragrant white flowers during the summer months which then give way to small fruits similar to kiwis.
2) Valerian
Valerian has many benefits for humans. Indeed, it is used to promote sleep and fight against anxiety. In cats, the effects are not the same, because it stimulates them strongly. The only negative point is its smell since it is often compared to that of urine. Cats love it, humans less so.
3) Lavender
In addition to delicately scenting your interior, lavender provides a feeling of calm in cats. This can be particularly useful for stressed felines or for calm down a cat in heat for example. Be careful that your pet does not eat the flowers, because they are toxic.
4) Chamomile
Like lavender, chamomile soothes cats, but also humans who consume it in the form of an infusion. For your companion, choose a natural diffuser or dried herbs.
5) Honeysuckle
Cats are very sensitive to Tartarian honeysuckle (Lonicera Tartarica). Do not use the plant as is, however, as the berries are just as toxic to cats as they are to you. Instead, choose toys already infused with honeysuckle.
