Catnip is a plant—known scientifically as Nepeta cataria—that is a member of the mint family. The active ingredient is called nepetalactone, which many domestic cats respond to in a variety of ...

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Getty Images/Svetlana Popova When you’re watching your cat play with some catnip you ...

Though we may call catnip "kitty crack," the herb is non-addictive and isn't even a drug (so it's perfectly safe to give to your kitty, big or small). But how does it work? And why doesn't it have any ...

Like a stoner with a joint or an oenophile with a glass of wine, any cat that is susceptible to the intoxicating effects of catnip seem to be having an absolute blast getting joyfully wasted. Yet as a ...

Cats go mad for catnip because chemicals released from the plant protect them against mosquitoes, according to new research. The common herb, also known by its taxonomic name Nepeta cataria, is a ...

There are only two times a day when my cat transforms from a lazy, judgmental loaf of bread to a Hot Wheels racer burning track marks into our living room carpet: during her habitual 2 a.m. zoomies ...

Catnip may be used as a natural insect repellent. [Gallio lab / Northwestern] While catnip is a common herb that is often used in cat toys and treats—due to its euphoric and hallucinogenic effects on ...

If you've ever questioned, “What is silver vine?”, then you're not alone. Although most people have heard of catnip, it actually only affects two in three cats. This means some kitties don’t seem to ...

Cats enjoy simple pleasures like bird murder and sitting in squares, but nothing beats getting laced with catnip. The latter is the focus of a study published Monday in Nature Chemical Biology, which ...

This easy-growing plant can thrive inside or outdoors, helping to repel spiders where needed while offering unique perks to ...

When you’re watching your cat play with some catnip you sprinkled on the floor, it’s pretty common to wonder, "does catnip get cats high?”. After all, the way cats roll around and act silly looks just ...