Catnip is a herbal stimulant that can send your Ragdoll into a fit of kitten like playfulness. Nepata Cataria by its proper name is part of the mint family of herb. It is perennial and can reach a height of three feet. Catnip has heart shaped leaves that secret aromatic oil; the oil seems to protect the plant from insects. It is this oil that has a near drug like affect on your Ragdoll cat.

The behavior your cat will exhibit while under the influence of catnip includes sniffing, licking, and chewing the catnip, a heavy dose of face rubbing, followed by a somersault and an all over catnip rub.

Catnip is commonly found in stuffed toys; however, you can purchase dried catnip leaves. Dried catnip can be applied to toys and scratching posts you would like to encourage your Ragdoll cat to use.

Some pet owners feel strongly against the use of catnip. It is simply a herbal stimulant with no harmful side-effects. Not all cats respond to catnip and young kittens seem to be immune to the effects until they reach the age of six months.
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Playing with your Ragdoll cat is a fun way to exercise and bond with your cat. Toys don’t have to cost a fortune and there are plenty of things around the house to keep your Ragdoll cat entertained and fit.

You may have seen your cat playing in a paper bag or a cardboard box. Cat toys don’t have to be fancy and even something as simple as a shower curtain ring can provide your Ragdoll hours of enjoyment.

Here are some ideas for homemade toys for your Ragdoll:

• Turn a cardboard box upside down and cut a small hole in one side to provide access for your cat’s paw. Place a catnip mouse inside the box and watch your Ragdoll grab at the mouse.

• Cut an opening on both ends of the cardboard box to create a tunnel for your Ragdoll cat to play in.

• Crumple paper into a ball and throw it into an open box for your cat to play with.

• Plastic rings from a milk jug can provide your cat hours of enjoyment, especially if your cat likes to fetch.

• Tie newspaper to a string and drag it across the floor for your cat to play with.

• Set a large paper bag on its side for your Ragdoll to crawl inside.

• Plastic drinking straws, shower curtain rings, and plastic bottle tops make great soccer toys.

Have any other ideas for homemade cat toys? Post your thoughts here!

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