Is Catnip toxic to cats?
Yes. Catnip is safe for cats. The characteristic rolling, rubbing, and excitability response is harmless. About 50–70% of cats are affected; the rest are genetically unresponsive.
Key facts
- Verdict: Yes — generally safe for cats in the context described below.
- Category: Safe houseplant
What's the full picture?
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, which triggers a short euphoric response in most cats. The effect typically lasts 5–10 minutes, followed by a refractory period where the cat is temporarily unaffected.
Catnip is completely safe. Cats won't overdose — they naturally stop responding when they've had enough. Dried catnip, fresh plants, and catnip toys are all fine.
Around 30% of cats don't respond to catnip at all (it's a genetic trait). Silver vine (Actinidia polygama), valerian, and Tatarian honeysuckle are alternatives that affect some non-catnip-responders.
We earn commission from some links below (Amazon Associates, Commission Junction, AWIN). This supports the site at no extra cost to you.
Cat owner essentials
For prescription-strength flea, tick and wormer protection, Best Vet Care ships direct from licensed vets — no vet visit required. (affiliate link)
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat catnip or is it just to smell?
Both are fine. Sniffing produces the euphoric effect; eating produces a milder calming effect. Some vomiting is possible if they eat a lot.
At what age can kittens have catnip?
Kittens under around 3–6 months don't respond to catnip anyway, so it's worth waiting. No safety issue — it just won't do much.
UK: For complete daily nutrition, Feline 40 is a cat supplement trusted by 2,600+ UK owners. (affiliate link)US: For premium treats, Granville Island Pet Treatery makes human-grade artisan treats — the premium choice for health-conscious cat owners. (affiliate link)
Recommended for cat owners
Related
Sources referenced for this guidance
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) — UK clinical toxicology reference used by vets
- International Cat Care — feline-specific clinical guidance
- BSAVA — British Small Animal Veterinary Association reference materials
- Merck Veterinary Manual — professional veterinary reference
About this guidance
Every entry on this site is compiled from published UK veterinary toxicology sources — International Cat Care, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) references, RCVS-registered practice materials, and peer-reviewed feline medicine literature. Where the evidence is mixed, we err on the cautious side because cats are unusually sensitive to many common substances that are harmless to humans and even to dogs.
This is general information written for UK cat owners. It is not personalised veterinary advice for your specific cat, their age, weight, medical history, or the exact exposure you're dealing with. If your cat has eaten something or is unwell, call your vet first. The Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 is available 24/7 for a small fee and can tell you whether an emergency visit is needed.
Entries are reviewed and updated as new research emerges. Spotted an error? Let us know — corrections are investigated and applied within 24 hours. For more context on how we work, see about and our full disclaimer.
Last reviewed: · By the What Can My Cat Eat? editorial team