Yes, you can use fresh catnip in homemade catnip toys. In fact, fresh catnip may even be more potent than dried catnip, as it contains higher concentrations of the essential oils that stimulate cats’ senses.

To use fresh catnip in homemade catnip toys, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to prepare the catnip before adding it to the toy. Here’s how:

1. Harvest the catnip: Harvest fresh catnip from your garden or purchase it from a local farmer’s market or pet store. Be sure to choose catnip that is free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
2. Dry the catnip: To use fresh catnip in cat toys, you’ll need to dry it first. Hang the catnip upside down in a warm, dry place, such as a sunny window or a dry basement. You can also dry the catnip in a dehydrator or oven on low heat. Once the catnip is dry, remove the leaves from the stem and discard the stem.
3. Store the catnip: Store the dried catnip in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help preserve the potency and freshness of the catnip until you’re ready to use it in your homemade catnip toys.
4. Add the catnip to the toy: Once you’re ready to make your catnip toy, add a small amount of dried catnip to the stuffing material. You can also sprinkle a small amount of catnip directly onto the fabric before sewing it together. Be sure to use a small amount of catnip, as too much can be overwhelming for your cat.

Using fresh catnip in homemade catnip toys can be a great way to provide your cat with a fun and stimulating toy. However, it’s important to keep in mind that fresh catnip may not be as long-lasting as dried catnip, as it may lose its potency more quickly. Be sure to store the catnip properly to ensure that it stays fresh and potent for as long as possible.

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