Play time with your cat is an important part of keeping them healthy and happy. Veterinarians sometimes suggest catnip to help convince your cat to play or calm down. Like everything, your cat will have an opinion about it. For a vast majority of cats, it’s positive. For a select few, it might not be. Having options can help you find what works best for your furry friend.
Why Would My Cat Need an Alternative to Catnip?
Catnip can help provide several benefits for cats:
- Make social interactions easier
- Help calm them down in times of stress
- Make enrichment activities, like play time, more fun
- Encourage them to explore and exercise
Because of these benefits, catnip can help your cat live a happy and healthy lifestyle. However, some cats do not like catnip. This could be for a few reasons. For some, it causes tummy trouble, and others simply don’t like the taste. If your cat doesn’t like catnip, there are several alternatives that can provide similar benefits.
The Top 3 Catnip Alternatives
There are three common catnip alternatives that have an effect similar to catnip: silvervine, valerian, and honeysuckle wood. But no matter which one you choose, always use it in moderation and under supervision.
Although these catnip alternatives are considered safe, it is still a good idea to check with your veterinarian before adding anything new to your cat’s diet. While they are safe for the majority of cats, they might not be right for your cat. If your cat has a disease that affects their heart, kidneys, or GI tract, stimulants like catnip and catnip alternatives could be dangerous.
Silvervine
Did you know that only 68% of cats will react to catnip? But 80% of cats react to Silvervine! This makes it the most common catnip alternative around. This plant has two substances that cats react to: actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide. These compounds trigger neurological reactions that cause a euphoric sensation in cats when they smell silvervine.
Valerian Root
This interesting plant has been used by humans throughout history for its calming effects. It can also be used for cats! Typically, valerian makes cats feel excited and playful, which is a good way to help your cat get a little exercise. For a small few, it can cause relaxation instead. Valerian can cause an increase in urination, so make sure that your cat has fresh drinking water available, to prevent dehydration.
Tatarian Honeysuckle Wood
If thinking about alternatives for catnip, Tatarian Honeysuckle Wood is one that many cats respond to. However, it can be dangerous if the wrong part of the plant is used. Only the wood is safe for cats, as the other parts, like the fruit, flowers, or leaves, can be toxic if ingested. Similarly to valerian root, Tatarian honeysuckle wood can have either an excitable or calming effect on cats.
Veterinarian Care for Cats in Gilbert
If you are looking at alternatives for catnip, check with a veterinarian first! The vets at East Valley Animal Hospital can point you in the right direction and advise you on the correct dose. We are dedicated to making sure that your cat lives a long, happy, healthy life. From checkups to emergencies, we provide a full range of veterinary services. If your cat is due for an exam, contact us to schedule a visit.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (4/11/25). Photo by Tatyana Rubleva on Unsplash.