Cats are known to be attracted to catnip, which is a plant in the mint family that contains an active ingredient called nepetalactone. When cats smell or consume catnip, it can have a variety of effects on their behavior, including excitement, relaxation, and even aggression. However, there is less research on why cats may be attracted to catnip smoke specifically.

One theory is that the smell of catnip smoke is similar to the scent of a female cat in heat. Male cats are particularly responsive to this scent, and it may trigger a hormonal response that causes them to become more excitable or playful. However, this theory has not been proven, and there may be other factors at play as well.

Another possible explanation is that the smell of catnip smoke may be stimulating to a cat’s olfactory senses. Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, and they may be drawn to the strong, pungent aroma of catnip smoke. This could explain why cats seem to enjoy sniffing or rolling in catnip leaves, as well as why they may be attracted to the smoke.

It is also possible that cats simply find the sensation of inhaling smoke to be pleasurable. While inhaling any type of smoke can be harmful to a cat’s respiratory system, the act of sniffing or inhaling something can be enjoyable and stimulating. Some cats may simply enjoy the sensation of breathing in the smoke, regardless of the specific scent or chemical composition.

Overall, there is still much that we do not understand about why cats are attracted to catnip and catnip smoke. It may be a combination of factors, including the smell, the hormonal response, and the pleasurable sensation of inhaling smoke. However, it is important to remember that smoking any substance can be harmful to a cat’s health, and it is not recommended to expose cats to catnip smoke or any other type of smoke. Instead, it is safer to offer cats catnip in its natural form, such as fresh leaves or catnip-infused toys.

Read more:Is Catnip Smoke Safe for Cats?