Catnip toys are fast becoming a popular choice for cat lovers and breeders alike. These toys seem to turn the laziest cat into a 'high' giddy kitten within seconds. In case you are wondering, catnip is a minty, aromatic herb that contains a natural chemical called nepetalactone. A single sniff of this chemical will trigger the emotions of your feline friend, making them euphoric and excited. Here are additional fun facts about catnip toys.
1. Catnip is a herb from the mint family
Catnip is a perennial herb that grows mostly in Europe, Africa and Asia. The herb belongs to the same mint family as spearmint and peppermint. With this in mind, you can give your cat cosmic catnip without worrying about their health or safety.
2. Not all cats respond to catnip
Sniffing catnip tends to cause a euphoric effect in most cats aged six months and above. However, not all cats react to this herb. Various studies suggest that only 50 to 80 per cent of cats may respond to it. So, if your cat does not respond to catnip, the squeaky noise of the Featherlite Springy Catnip Boa or the Kong Cat Duckie Catnip Toy will still arouse their emotions and curiosity.
3. Catnip toys relieve stress
Cats tend to get bored and frustrated very quickly. As the stress levels build-up, your cat may become extremely aggressive towards everyone in the family, including the kids. Catnip has a stimulating effect, thus giving your cats catnip toys can help relieve stress quickly and make them happy.
4. Catnip toys have health benefits
Forget about the stimulant effect. Catnip infused toys offer several health benefits to your cat. Besides relieving stress and improving mood, catnip toys will encourage your pet to play, exercise and become more active instead of sleeping in their feline igloo all day long.
5. Nepetalactone is a pest repellent
Various studies indicate the chemical nepetalactone contains substances that act as pest repellents. The chemical is highly effective against mosquitoes, flies, bugs, and termites. However, the substance is only effective when not applied to the skin.
6. Catnip toys can help improve feline behaviour
Cats frequently scratch on fabric, curtains, furniture and other household items as a way of retracting their nails and stretching out their bodies. However, this natural behaviour could damage your valuable items. To avoid this, you are advised to install scratching posts and place catnip toys nearby to attract your cats attention.
Contact Vet Products Direct for the Best Catnip Toys
Vet Products Direct, we deal with all kinds of catnip infused toys, ranging from Kong Cat Wubba to the popular Kong Kitty Kong. Moreover, we use fresh, natural catnip mint for all our toys to ensure they are safe for your cat to play with. We also offer an easy-to-use catnip spray that you can reapply to the toy in case the catnip scent starts to fade.
For more information about our catnip toys and products, please don't hesitate to visit our online store.
