Quick answer: Catnip is a plant that many, but not all, cats find exciting. Offer a catnip toy a few times a week for short play sessions, supervise your cat, and store the toy in a sealed container between uses so it stays fresh.
How catnip works
Catnip is a herb from the mint family. Cats that respond to it usually react after sniffing, and you might see rolling, rubbing, zooming around, pouncing or a mellow, dreamy stare. The reaction is typically short, and then your cat loses interest for a while.
Not every cat responds. Sensitivity runs in families, so some cats simply shrug it off. That is completely normal and not a sign that anything is wrong.
Kittens and catnip
Young kittens often do not react to catnip at all, and many only start responding as they mature. If your kitten ignores a catnip toy, that is fine. Keep the toy for later, and use feathers, balls and small crinkly toys for play in the meantime. If you are unsure about anything with a young kitten, check with your vet.
The Olive and Fig set
The Olive and Fig tinkly catnip toy from Lambwolf Collective is a pair of toys designed for chasing, pouncing and batting. According to the product page, the Fig toy is filled with premium catnip, which adds extra excitement and enrichment. We are an official Australian stockist of Lambwolf Collective.
As with all pet toys, the page recommends supervising your kitten or cat during play and regularly checking toys for signs of wear.
How often to offer catnip
- A few times a week is plenty for most cats.
- Keep sessions short, and put the toy away afterwards.
- If you offer it constantly, many cats lose interest, so rotation keeps it special.
- Choose a calm time and place, away from other pets, if your cat gets overexcited.
Safe play tips
- Supervise play, especially in the first sessions.
- Watch for cats that become rough. Some get playful or grumpy while stimulated.
- Check the toy for loose stitching, holes or fraying, and retire it if damaged.
- Keep catnip toys away from small children, and keep spare catnip out of reach.
- Wash fabric toys occasionally. The same principles in our guide on how often to wash toys apply to cat toys, though always check the care instructions first.
Storing catnip toys
Catnip loses its scent over time. Store the toy in an airtight container or a zip bag, in a cool, dry place, when playtime ends. This helps keep the aroma stronger for longer, and keeps curious cats from nibbling or carrying it off.
If your cat does not respond
Plenty of cats are not interested in catnip. Try these instead:
- Wand toys with feathers or ribbon for chasing games.
- Small balls, crinkle toys and tinkly toys that move and make sound.
- Cardboard boxes and paper bags to hide in and explore.
- Other cat safe plants, such as silvervine, which some cats prefer. Check suitability with your vet first.
- Short, regular play sessions, which matter more than any single toy.
Shipping within Australia starts from $9.95, orders dispatch within 0 to 2 business days, and delivery takes 2 to 7 business days. We also offer 60 day returns on eligible items. You can see the wider Lambwolf Collective range too, though most of it is designed for dogs.
Frequently asked questions
Is catnip safe for cats?
Catnip is generally considered safe for most cats in small amounts, but supervise play and check with your vet if your cat has any health concerns.
At what age do kittens respond to catnip?
Many kittens do not respond when very young and start reacting as they grow. Every cat is different, and some never react at all.
How long does a catnip reaction last?
Usually just a short burst of play, after which your cat loses interest for a while. Put the toy away and offer it again another day.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
