Catnip is a herbaceous plant that contains an organic compound called nepetalactone, which has a profound effect on cats. When cats come into contact with nepetalactone, either by smelling or ingesting it, it triggers a response in their brain that can cause them to exhibit hyperactive behavior.

The way catnip causes hyperactivity in cats is not entirely understood, but researchers believe that it has to do with the interaction between nepetalactone and the cat’s olfactory system. When a cat smells catnip, the scent molecules bind to receptors in the cat’s nasal tissues, which then sends a signal to the brain’s olfactory bulb. The olfactory bulb is responsible for processing smell, and it is also connected to other parts of the brain that control emotions, memory, and behavior.

One theory is that nepetalactone stimulates the brain’s pleasure and reward centers, which leads to a release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure, and their release can create a sense of euphoria and excitement in cats. This, in turn, can cause cats to become hyperactive and playful.

Another theory is that nepetalactone mimics a pheromone that cats produce when they are in heat. This pheromone, called methylbenzoquinone, is believed to stimulate sexual arousal in cats, and it may also have a role in inducing hyperactivity. It’s possible that nepetalactone activates the same neural pathways as methylbenzoquinone, which could explain why some cats become more active and playful after smelling catnip.

Interestingly, not all cats respond to catnip in the same way. Some cats may become hyperactive and playful, while others may become calm and relaxed. The reason for this variability is not entirely clear, but it may have to do with genetics or individual differences in brain chemistry.

In conclusion, catnip can cause hyperactivity in cats by stimulating the brain’s pleasure and reward centers or by mimicking a pheromone that induces sexual arousal. While the exact mechanism of action is not entirely understood, researchers continue to study the effects of catnip on cats to gain a better understanding of how it affects their behavior and physiology. If you have a cat that reacts to catnip, it’s always important to monitor their behavior and make sure they don’t ingest too much of it, as this can cause digestive issues or other health problems.

Read more:Catnip and Hyperactivity: Myth or Reality?