Is your Ragdoll a catnip junkie? When it comes to catnip some Ragdolls can’t get enough. If your Ragdoll cat is overweight, a catnip toy could inspire your cat to get some needed exercise. Here are the basics you need to know about catnip.
Cat nip affects cats in a variety of different ways. Some cats are not affected in any way. Others experience relaxation, excitement, or even anxiety. Catnip is an herb related to the mint family. When the dried leaves are crushed oil is released. It is this oil that is responsible for the reaction many cats experience to catnip. When your Ragdoll cat comes in contact with the oil, a pleasure center in your cat’s brain is activated. Not all cats are susceptible to catnip, and kittens seem to be immune until after they reach the age of six months.
If your Ragdoll cat responds to catnip it may be a different reaction from your other cats. Most cats respond to catnip by getting goofy. Your cat may roll around on the carpet, get mellow, or even get agitated and aggressive. Exposure to catnip could also stimulate your cat’s appetite; this could be useful for Ragdoll owners that have cat’s with finicky appetites.
Can your Ragdoll cat have too much catnip? Your veterinarian will tell you catnip is safe and non-habit forming. The effects do not last for more than twenty minutes. You can even grow your own catnip at home. Catnip seeds take one or two weeks to sprout; you can grow them like any other herb in your garden. You can also transplant cuttings into your garden directly. Once your catnip has bloomed, cut off several inches and dry it.
To dry the catnip pull off the leaves and toss the stems. Place the leaves in drying trays in an area where the air circulates; this will speed the drying process. Once the leaves are brittle you can crumble them to make catnip flakes. Always store your catnip in a sealed, airtight container to keep it fresh. Rub fresh catnip on your Ragdoll cat’s toys and scratching post.
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