If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably heard of Actinidia. You probably also know that they have a reputation for making cats a little uncomfortable.
But how much do you actually know about it?
For example, do you know exactly how it works and how safe it is for your cat?
This post will answer these questions and more.
What exactly is Matatabi?
Actinidia is a common lemon-like herb that is a member of the mint family.
In Latin it is known as: Nepeta Katariabut people often call it field balm, catwort, or catmint.
This plant is attractive to all members of the cat family, including leopards, tigers and lions, as well as to domestic pet kittens.
How does catnip work?
One of the main components found in catnip is nepetalactone, a chemical called volatile oil (also known as terpene). Found in leaves and stems of plants.
When a cat smells nepetalactone, it can stimulate certain chemicals in the brain that are associated with happiness and mood.
Interestingly, the same thing doesn’t happen in humans because they have physiologically very different brains than cats.
Does catnip make cats high?
Actinidia is sometimes referred to as a “weed” to cats because it seems like cats get “high” when they smell it. In other words, a happy, calm, and relaxed state.
But it’s worth pointing out that it has nothing to do with weed. In fact, scientific studies have proven that Actinidia does not affect a cat’s brain in the same way as other drugs such as cocaine or marijuana.
Even after sniffing, cats seem to be fully aware of their surroundings. they look very happy.
Overall, Actinidia is considered safe as it is non-addictive and has no long-term negative effects on your cat’s brain.
Why do cats like Actinidia?
Experts claim that cats love Actinidia because every time they inhale it, they feel extremely happy and euphoric, instantly feeling completely relaxed.
One possible reason for this is that the scent may mimic a cat’s sex pheromones. The effects typically last about 10 minutes for most cats.
When a feline encounters a catfish, it may rub it up and down its face or try to eat it, especially if it’s fresh.
Does catnip have any effect?
For cats, exposure to Actinidia has several benefits.
One of the main benefits is that most kittens love rolling around in these mint herbal beds and playing with herb-infused toys, which helps prevent boredom.
Additionally, it can be used as a training aid. This is especially helpful if your cat is scratching your furniture or exhibiting other undesirable behavior. You can distract your cat by rubbing a small amount of Actinidia on your cat’s scratching pad from time to time.
How should I introduce Actinidia to my cat?
If you are interested in exposing your cat to Actinidia for the first time, we recommend that you do not purchase too large quantities until you are sure that your cat will like it (not all cats will).
However, you can do it in several ways:
- Buy Matatabi toys
- Throw the Actinidia in the new space you want your cat to discover.
- Sprinkle it lightly on your cat’s scratching area and toys to see if your cat likes interacting with it.
- Use to reduce potential anxiety when meeting a new cat.
- Place your pet in a carrier when going to the vet or riding in the car.
What type of Actinidia is best to give to cats?
Catnip comes in a variety of forms, including the most common dried herb form.
These are also available infused into chews and toys, raw, or as sprays or oil extracts. you should Check out Zack’s Pet Shop To see the full range.
Felines react differently, so your pet will probably prefer one type of cat over another. Therefore, you should take your time and experiment to see which type you like best.
If you purchase dried Actinidia, it is important to store it in an airtight container in the freezer. This ensures that it never loses its potency. We recommend looking for 100% organic or natural catnip.
Is it possible for a cat to overdose on Actinidia?
Technically, cats cannot “overdose” Actinidia. But at the same time, don’t eat too much at once.
The reason is that you may experience mild gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea and vomiting.
If this happens, remove all traces of Actinidia from areas where your cat roams.
How long does catnip last?
As mentioned above, the effects of Actinidia vary depending on the individual cat, but they tend to last for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Once the effects wear off, it may take 30 minutes to an hour for your kitten to respond normally. The exact time depends on the potency of the catnip they inhaled.
