Catnip: Effects, Application & Benefits for Your Cat

Anyone who has ever witnessed a cat completely enchanted by sniffing a fabric mouse, then suddenly rolling around as if hypnotized and subsequently taking a peaceful nap, has likely encountered catnip. This unassuming little plant certainly has a lot to offer—at least for our feline companions.

But catnip is much more than just a "cat herb." It is easy to care for, pleasing to the eye, bee-friendly—and a true mood enhancer in the garden. No wonder it is becoming increasingly popular among garden enthusiasts and cat owners alike.

In this blog, you will learn,

• what catnip actually is,

• why cats are so crazy about it,

• how to plant it in your garden or on your balcony,

• and how to properly care for it—from sowing to overwintering.

Whether you are just considering planting your first plants, or already have a small bed full of catnip: Here you will find comprehensive knowledge—practical, understandable, and with a touch of humor.

So: Get your shovel out, move the feline friend aside—let's get started!

What is catnip actually?

When you hear "catnip," you might think of a little herb from a magical garden—and honestly, you're not far off. The botanical name Nepeta cataria already sounds like a mix of Latin and magic. And for cats, it is: a true magical substance, packaged in an innocuous-looking shrub.

The Basics: Origin and Family

Catnip belongs to the mint family—related to plants like sage, lavender, or thyme. Originally, it comes from Southern Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but today it can be found in many home gardens—especially where cats live. It grows bushy, reaches about 40 to 100 centimeters in height, and bears small, delicate violet to white flowers that bloom between June and September.

And the best part? It is a true magnet for bees, bumblebees, and other beneficial garden inhabitants. So not only does the cat rejoice—your garden suddenly buzzes a bit more.

True Catnip vs. Ornamental Forms

There are many types of catnip, but if you want to do something good for your cat, you should opt for the "true catnip" (Nepeta cataria). Only this variety contains a high concentration of the active ingredient nepetalactone, which causes the typical "high" effects in many cats. Other varieties like Nepeta faassenii look pretty but often have little or no effect on cats—nice for the garden, rather boring for your feline friend.

How it works—and on whom

Interestingly, not all cats react to catnip. Studies show that about 50–70% of cats are sensitive to nepetalactone—genetically determined. Kittens under 3 months are usually not yet impressed by it, and even in older cats, the enthusiasm sometimes wanes. However, there is no potential for addiction, and it is not harmful—more on that in the next section.

How does catnip affect cats?

Imagine your cat walking past a pillow—suddenly she stops, turns around, throws herself into it purring, and rolls on the floor in excitement. Welcome to the spell of catnip!

The main culprit for this behavior is an essential oil called nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves and stems of the plant. It acts as a natural mood booster—but only for cats.

This is what happens when cats encounter catnip:

• Sniffing & Cuddling: Many cats rub against the scent, lick, or nibble on the plant.

• Full-throttle phase: Some become suddenly active, running around, jumping, or rolling wildly.

• Brief ecstasy: The effects usually last only 5 to 15 minutes—after that, it's time for a break.

• Guaranteed relaxation: After the "trip," most cats lie down somewhere contentedly and chill.

• No worries: The reaction is completely harmless—and not comparable to drug use in humans.

Interesting to know:

• The effects work only through the sense of smell. If catnip is eaten, the effect is significantly weaker or not present at all.

• Not every cat reacts! The susceptibility is inherited—some house cats just lazily twitch an ear.

• Even lions, tigers, and lynxes can react to catnip. The wild side in your feline friend says hello.

And if you're worried: Catnip is not addictive, does not harm body or soul, and can be offered regularly in moderation. It is only important to give the cat a break occasionally so that it does not become desensitized.

Planting Catnip – Turn Your Garden into a Relaxation Oasis

Whether in a bed, in a pot on the balcony, or as a gap filler in the herb garden – catnip looks good almost everywhere. It grows quickly, is undemanding, and magically attracts not only your cat but also bees and butterflies. And the best part: Even gardening beginners can handle it.

To ensure your "Planting Catnip" project succeeds, here are the most important points summarized:

Topic	Recommendation
Location	Sunny to partially shaded – the more sun, the more aromatic
Soil	Loose, permeable, nutrient-rich – no waterlogging
Planting Time	Spring (April–May) or Fall (September)
Plant Spacing	About 30–40 cm – it grows bushy and needs space
Sowing	Start indoors on the windowsill from March or sow directly into the bed
Watering	Moderate – it can handle dry spells
Neighbors in the Bed	Well combinable with lavender, thyme, marigold

Tip from the Gardening Glove:

If you plant catnip directly in the garden and your cat has free range, watch out for young plants. Some house cats get so excited that they flatten the young shoots. A small wire guard or a mini fence can help here – at least for the first few weeks.

And don't worry: Once the plant is established, it can withstand quite a bit. It reliably regrows every year and can even serve as a fragrant hedge or bed border.

Easy to Care for and Bee-Friendly: How to Properly Care for Catnip

Catnip is a bit like the cool neighbor in the garden: uncomplicated, charming, and popular with everyone – as long as you don't completely neglect it. With a few simple steps, it stays healthy, grows bushy, and blooms anew every year like a little fragrant wonder.

Here are the most important care tips for your catnip:

1. Watering – with Care

• Catnip prefers to be more dry than too wet.
• Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging—especially in pot culture.
• During long dry periods, it appreciates an extra sip of water.

2. Fertilizing – less is more

• A bit of compost or herb fertilizer in the spring is completely sufficient.
• Too much fertilizer will make it grow, but weakens the aroma.

3. Pruning – for flower power

• If you prune after the first bloom (June/July), it often blooms a second time in late summer.
• Also, regularly remove faded shoots—this promotes vitality.

4. Pests & Diseases – rarely a problem

• Catnip is quite resilient.
• Sometimes powdery mildew can occur—good air circulation and not watering from above helps.
• Aphids are rare and can usually be driven away with a jet of water or nettle broth.

5. Blooming period – a delight for humans & animals

• The main bloom is between June and September.
• The delicate, lavender-colored flowers have a light lemon scent and attract bees, bumblebees, and even butterflies.

Gardener's Rule of Thumb:

If you treat your catnip like a delicate but independent being—not too much, not too little—it will reward you with months of blooming joy and happy cat faces.

Overwintering Catnip – how it gets through the cold season well

As the days get shorter and the sun appears less often, catnip also slowly retreats. Its leaves wither, the shoots dry up—no need to worry. This is part of the natural rhythm of this perennial. Because underground, it is merely sleeping. And with the right winter setup, it will awaken full of energy next spring.

In the bed, catnip is hardy and easily handles normal Central European winters. Pruning in late autumn is not strictly necessary—you can also remove the dead plant parts in the spring. It may look a bit wild in winter, but it offers protection for the plant and habitat for insects. If you want it to look tidy, you can of course prune it back in October or November—down to about a hand's width above the ground.

If your catnip is in a pot, the situation is a bit different. Pots freeze faster, so it's best to place them against a sheltered house wall—ideally slightly elevated and not in direct draft. A fleece or jute sack around the pot can also help protect the roots from frost. Watering is only sporadic—just enough to prevent the root ball from completely drying out.

With this small hibernation management, you reward your plant in spring with strong, new shoots – and your cat can already look forward to an aromatic season.

DIY Ideas: Catnip for Toys & More

Catnip is not only a feast for your cat's senses, but it is also a real insider tip for homemade toys or small gifts for furry friends. And the best part: You don't need a sewing machine or crafting expertise – a bit of curiosity and joy are completely sufficient.

The classic par excellence is the catnip pillow. A piece of fabric, some stuffing, and a teaspoon of dried catnip – that's all you need. Whether you tie it with a pretty ribbon or sew it by hand is up to you. Your cat will be more interested in the contents than the appearance. And believe me: Once you see your cat cuddling, purring, and enthusiastically rubbing against its DIY pillow for the first time, you'll want to make an entire collection.

Old socks can also be wonderfully repurposed – simply add some stuffing and catnip, tie it up, and your retro-look cat toy is ready. For particularly playful cats, you can even fill small fabric balls or felt mice with the catnip. They will kick them around the house as if they had caught a live prey.

And if you prefer it all-natural: Simply dry a few catnip stems and offer them as they are. Some cats love to nibble directly on the dry plant parts or roll around on them – especially if you rub them a bit between your fingers beforehand to activate the essential oils.

A small pro tip to conclude: Store your dried catnip airtight in a jar or tin – preferably in the dark. This way, the aroma is preserved for a long time, and you always have a supply for small moments of well-being.

Conclusion: One Plant, Many Benefits – for Cats, Gardens, and Bees

Catnip is a bit like the Swiss army knife among garden plants – versatile, robust, and delightfully uncomplicated. It makes cats happy, brings color and fragrance to your garden, and simultaneously makes life easier for bees and bumblebees. Whether you use it as an ornamental plant, cat toy ingredient, or bee pasture: It simply brings joy.

With a little attention when planting, occasional pruning, and a frost-protected winter spot, it rewards you year after year with a blooming, fragrant splendor. And in passing, it regularly brings a broad, purring smile to your cat's face – what more could you want?

Also: If you have a little space in the garden bed, on the balcony, or on the windowsill – treat yourself (and your cat) to some catnip. You won't regret it. And who knows – maybe soon you'll not only be a gardener but also your cat's favorite person.