Catnip can also be used as a mosquito repellent – it doesn’t last as long as the DEET that most brands use but it’s good for people who want a product that’s not as harsh. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make a more informed decision and choose a catnip ball toy that will provide hours of safe and stimulating playtime for your cat. The catnip’s effect on cats means that they’ll pay attention and want to discover what this new toy does. If your cat is a big catnip fan but is not so fond of listening to you, you can try using catnip as an incentive. Whenever they’re performing a desired behaviour, such as using their litter box or coming when called, you can reward them with a bit of catnip. Is catnip dangerous for my cat? To maintain the potency of the catnip in the ball, store it in an airtight container when not in use. Some people even keep it in the freezer, claiming that this helps preserve the essential oils in the catnip that make it so attractive to cats. 9. My cat doesn’t seem interested in the catnip ball. Why could this be?

Kittens under six months may not yet respond to catnip, as the sensitivity to the herb often develops with age. For older kittens that do react to catnip, a catnip ball can be an excellent toy, but always supervise playtime to ensure the toy is not ingested or torn apart. 5. Are there any organic or natural catnip ball options? Catnip (or as it’s officially known Nepeta cataria) is a herb from the mint family. Originally common in a few areas of Asia and Europe, it has managed to spread to most corners of the world. You might have noticed it growing next to country roads or even as a drought-resistant addition in people’s gardens. What does catnip do to cats?Catnip seems to be adored across the feline kingdom with both big and small cats falling head over heels for this plant’s allure. But what is catnip and why do cats like it so much? Does it have any effect on us humans? And is it safe or not? We’re unravelling all the catnip mysteries below. What is catnip?

Choose a catnip ball made from high-quality, non-toxic materials. If your cat likes to chew or tear apart toys, make sure the materials are durable and safe to ingest in small amounts. Organic or natural materials like cotton or hemp are often good choices. Catnip Potency Catnip balls – Made out of soft materials and filled with catnip, these balls are perfect for play. Cats love to swat them and chase them. Catnip’s effects on cats can be different, with some cats appearing to be immune to the spell of the plant. Researchers estimate that about 30% of them don’t have any reaction to catnip. Experts think this is a genetically inherited trait that is passed down from parents, which means that in some cases the gene responsible for the “catnip reaction” is either missing or turned off. The researchers also noticed that both kittens and senior cats are less likely to be affected as well.The effectiveness of a catnip ball largely depends on the potency of the catnip used. Look for products that use high-quality, preferably organic, catnip. Some reputable brands specify the nepetalactone content, which is the active ingredient in catnip that triggers the response in cats. Safety Features Not all cats are sensitive to catnip; the trait is hereditary, and it’s estimated that between 50% to 75% of cats carry the gene that makes them responsive to catnip. Age, temperament, and prior exposure to catnip can also affect a cat’s reaction. 10. Can a cat have too much interaction with a catnip ball? Yes, cats can eat catnip and it’s safe for them to do so. If they happen to eat a large amount of the herb, they may experience mild tummy upset, but as most cats are attracted to the smell rather than the taste, this is unlikely to happen. Do humans react to catnip?

Cats love catnip, but what about us? Are we affected in similar ways? Although we don’t experience the same euphoria as our cats, humans do sometime use it as an alternative medicine. Webmd.com lists a series of uses that range from alleviating insomnia and migraines to relieving swelling and arthritis when applied to the skin.Consider the size and weight of the catnip ball in relation to your cat’s size. A ball that’s too large may be difficult for your cat to play with, while a toy that’s too small could be a choking hazard. Refillable Options Catnip mice – These are small toys shaped like mice that are filled with catnip. Your cat can play around with them or carry them in their mouths. When selecting a catnip ball toy for your feline friend, several key factors should be taken into consideration to ensure both safety and enjoyment. Here’s what to look for: Material Quality