Not all cats are affected by catnip, and the sensitivity to its effects is not determined by breed. In fact, sensitivity to catnip is believed to be an inherited trait, so it can vary between individual cats even within the same breed or litter.

Approximately 50-70% of cats are sensitive to catnip, meaning they experience a range of behaviors such as rubbing, rolling, meowing, and hyperactivity when they encounter the plant. These behaviors are thought to be caused by the chemical compound nepetalactone found in catnip, which binds to receptors in a cat’s olfactory bulb and triggers a response in the brain.

The sensitivity to catnip is not determined by breed or gender, although some cats may be more sensitive to it than others. For example, younger cats are generally more responsive to catnip than older cats, and some cats may not show a reaction to catnip until they are older. Additionally, individual cats can develop a tolerance to catnip over time, so their response may become less pronounced with repeated exposure.

It is also important to note that not all cats have a positive response to catnip. Some cats may become overstimulated, anxious, or even aggressive after being exposed to catnip. These reactions are rare, but it is important to monitor your cat’s behavior when introducing them to catnip for the first time.

In conclusion, the sensitivity to catnip is not determined by breed, and approximately 50-70% of cats are sensitive to the herb. Sensitivity to catnip is believed to be an inherited trait, so it can vary between individual cats, even within the same breed or litter. It is also important to note that not all cats have a positive reaction to catnip, and some may become overstimulated or anxious after exposure.

Read more:Catnip and Hyperactivity: Myth or Reality?