If you've ever seen a cat roll, purr, or go wild after encountering catnip, you’ve probably wondered what makes this plant so irresistible. The magic ingredient is called **nepetalactone**, a chemical compound found in the leaves and stems of the catnip plant. When cats sniff or chew on catnip, this compound triggers sensory neurons in their brain, leading to behaviours like playfulness, excitement, and sometimes even relaxation.
But not all cats are affected by catnip. Around 50-75% of cats have a genetic sensitivity to it. For those that do, it provides a burst of euphoria lasting about 10-15 minutes before they become temporarily immune to its effects. Interestingly, this reaction isn't limited to house cats—big cats like lions and tigers may also enjoy a little catnip from time to time!
So, the next time your feline friend is rolling around in catnip bliss, know that it's a perfectly natural response—and a harmless way for them to indulge in a little fun.