Cat behavior on catnip

What you will see

Most cats that react start by sniffing the catnip, then press their cheeks and chin against it and roll on their back. Some purr or make noises, some chase invisible things across the room, and some lie down and stay still. Both kinds of cat are normal: catnip does not do the same thing to every cat.

Watch the first time from close by, on a floor with nothing breakable around. A cat that gets lively may bat at a hand or a second cat, so give two cats their catnip in separate rooms the first time.

Why all the rolling?

Scientists in Japan and England looked at this in 2021. Their study suggests that when a cat rubs and rolls on the plant, it spreads plant chemicals on its fur that mosquitoes avoid. It is a suggestion from one line of research, not a settled fact, but it gives the strange dance a practical side.

Good habits

• Short sessions: let the episode end on its own, then put the catnip away.
• Kittens under about six months usually show nothing; try again later.
• Toys used with catnip should pass the toy check: no loose string.