If you’re a loving cat parent, you’re probably familiar with catnip. Catnip is a member of the mint family. But while cats typically dislike peppermint, many can’t seem to get enough of catnip.
Catnip is available in a variety of forms, including dried and fresh, stuffed with toys, and infused with bubbles and sprays. You should avoid giving your cat too much, since an overdose of catnip can lead to dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea. However, a small amount of catnip at a time can be good for your cat. Here’s what you should know about the benefits of catnip for cats.
5 Most Notable Benefits of Catnip for Cats
It’s no secret that many cats adore catnip, but this herb can help your fur baby beyond their mood. Here are the five most notable benefits.
1. Aids With Relaxation
Did you know that cats can feel stressed and anxious the same way humans can? If your cat gets a little overwhelmed, you may be able to help them relax with catnip. This herb can have a sedative effect on some fur babies, so some people like to offer it as a way to help their cats relax.
2. Repels Unwanted Bugs
One of the surprising benefits of catnip for cats is that it can repel unwanted pests. If your cat spends time outdoors and you want to keep ticks, mosquitoes and mites away, consider planting catnip in your garden. Avoid spraying catnip oil directly on your cat, though, since it’s highly concentrated and may be too strong for your pet to handle.
3. Encourages Wound Healing
If your cat gets a little cut on his or her ear, paw or anywhere else, try making a wound paste from catnip and water. Apply the paste directly to the scratches or cuts to facilitate faster healing. Catnip has antiseptic properties and can prevent the development of infections. However, for any injury that seems at all serious, a trip to the vet remains the best option.
4. Improves Training Efforts
Training cats can be notoriously difficult, but catnip makes it easier. One of the top benefits of catnip for cats is that it makes training sessions more fun and effective when used as positive reinforcement. Whether you’re training your cat to wear a harness or to roll over on command, make catnip part of your session for optimal results.
5. Boosts Physical Activity
While some cats get more relaxed after eating catnip, others become more frisky when exposed to the herb. If your cat gets more energetic after rolling around in catnip, you can use the opportunity to play with your cat and make sure he or she is getting enough daily physical activity.
Experience the Benefits of Catnip for Cats
If you want to see the many benefits of catnip for cats firsthand, grab some of our gorgeous toys for your cat.
Fresh catnip is very potent and it’s easy to give your cat too much of it. For that reason, you can get catnip-infused toys from Bloire for your cat instead.
READ MORE: How to Keep Your Catnip Toys Interesting for Your Cat
Our high-quality toys can withstand normal wear and tear and provide hours of play while still allowing your cat to enjoy safe amounts of catnip. Shop our selection of premium catnip toys today.
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