Catnip is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, native to Europe and Asia but now found worldwide. The plant’s leaves and stems contain a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which produces a distinctive scent that has a profound effect on cats. When cats inhale the scent of catnip, they become highly stimulated, displaying behaviors such as rolling around, rubbing against the plant, and vocalizing.

While most cats respond to the scent of catnip, not all cats are affected by it. The sensitivity to catnip is hereditary, and some cats simply do not possess the genetic trait that makes them responsive to the herb’s effects. Additionally, kittens under the age of six months old are typically not affected by catnip.

In recent years, some cat owners have experimented with exposing their cats to catnip smoke. Catnip smoke is produced by heating dried catnip leaves and inhaling the smoke that is released. Some cat owners have reported that their cats become more intensely stimulated when exposed to catnip smoke than when exposed to the scent of the plant itself.

However, it is important to note that there is currently no scientific research to support the safety or effectiveness of exposing cats to catnip smoke. In fact, inhaling any kind of smoke can be harmful to a cat’s respiratory system, potentially leading to respiratory distress, coughing, and other respiratory issues.

Additionally, some cat owners have reported that their cats become aggressive or anxious after exposure to catnip smoke. This may be due to the intensity of the stimulation caused by the smoke, or it may be related to the fact that cats are sensitive to changes in their environment and may become stressed when exposed to unfamiliar stimuli.

In conclusion, while catnip is generally considered safe for cats to consume or play with, there is no evidence to suggest that inhaling catnip smoke is safe or effective for cats. In fact, inhaling any kind of smoke can be harmful to a cat’s respiratory system, and exposure to unfamiliar stimuli can cause stress and anxiety in cats. Therefore, it is recommended that cat owners avoid exposing their cats to catnip smoke and instead stick to safer methods of providing their cats with the stimulation they crave, such as toys, scratching posts, and playtime.

Read more:Is Catnip Smoke Safe for Cats?