Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family and is native to Europe and Asia, but now it is commonly found all over the world. The scientific name of catnip is Nepeta cataria. Catnip is known for its ability to induce hyperactivity in cats, which has been observed for centuries.

The active ingredient in catnip is nepetalactone, a volatile oil found in the leaves and stems of the plant. When cats smell or ingest nepetalactone, it triggers a series of reactions in their brain that result in the characteristic behavior observed in cats exposed to catnip.

When a cat smells catnip, the nepetalactone in the plant binds to the olfactory receptors in the cat’s nose. These receptors are responsible for detecting odors and sending signals to the brain, which in turn triggers a response in the hypothalamus.

The hypothalamus is a region of the brain that plays a critical role in regulating a range of behaviors, including hunger, thirst, sleep, and sexual arousal. When nepetalactone reaches the hypothalamus, it activates a series of neurons that release a neurotransmitter called dopamine.

Dopamine is a chemical messenger that plays a critical role in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure. When dopamine is released in the brain, it triggers a feeling of euphoria and pleasure, which can induce hyperactivity in cats.

Moreover, catnip also has a sedative effect on cats, which can make them feel relaxed and calm. The sedative effect of catnip is caused by another chemical called actinidine, which is found in the leaves and stems of the plant.

The combination of the euphoric and sedative effects of catnip can induce hyperactivity in some cats, while others may feel more relaxed and sleepy.

It is worth noting that not all cats respond to catnip in the same way. The sensitivity to catnip is inherited, and it is estimated that around 70-80% of cats are affected by nepetalactone. Kittens under six months old are generally not affected by catnip, while senior cats may also lose their sensitivity to catnip.

In conclusion, catnip induces hyperactivity in cats by triggering a series of reactions in the brain that result in the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and pleasure. The active ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, binds to the olfactory receptors in the cat’s nose, which in turn activates a series of neurons in the hypothalamus, leading to the release of dopamine. The combination of the euphoric and sedative effects of catnip can induce hyperactivity in some cats, while others may feel more relaxed and calm.