The active ingredient in catnip that causes hyperactivity in cats is called nepetalactone. This chemical compound is found in the leaves and stems of the catnip plant, and it is released when the plant is damaged or crushed. When cats come into contact with the nepetalactone, it stimulates certain receptors in their noses, which then send signals to the brain.

The precise mechanisms by which nepetalactone causes hyperactivity in cats are not well understood, but it is thought to be related to the way the chemical interacts with a cat’s olfactory system. The olfactory system is responsible for processing smells and is closely linked to the brain’s reward and pleasure centers.

When a cat sniffs catnip, the nepetalactone molecules bind to receptors in the cat’s olfactory bulb, which then sends signals to the amygdala and hypothalamus in the brain. These are the parts of the brain that are responsible for regulating emotions, motivation, and pleasure.

The release of these signals results in a cascade of events that cause the cat to exhibit various behavioral changes, including hyperactivity, increased playfulness, and vocalization. Some cats may also exhibit other behaviors, such as rolling around or rubbing their faces on objects.

The effects of catnip on cats typically last for about 10-15 minutes, after which the cat will become desensitized to the nepetalactone and the effects will wear off. It is worth noting that not all cats exhibit a response to catnip, and the sensitivity to nepetalactone is thought to be an inherited trait.

In summary, the active ingredient in catnip that causes hyperactivity in cats is called nepetalactone. When cats come into contact with the nepetalactone, it stimulates certain receptors in their noses, which then send signals to the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. This results in a cascade of events that cause the cat to exhibit various behavioral changes, including hyperactivity and increased playfulness. The effects typically last for about 10-15 minutes and are thought to be related to the way the chemical interacts with a cat’s olfactory system.