Catnip is best known for producing bouts of euphoria in cats of all sizes, fromย house cats to theirย big cat brethrenย (including bobcats, jaguars, and lions). In addition to giving felines a healthy release from stress and anxiety, however, some studies show it offers up an additional perk: repelling mosquitos. Related toย mint, basil, and lemon balm, Nepeta cataria (aka catnip) emits a chemical compound called nepetalactone when crushed, which naturallyย wards off some mosquito species. Whatโs more, catnip-addled cats often chew and rub the leaves into their coats, an action thatย (unknowingly) spreads the natural bug repellentย around. While catnip is all fun for cats, itโs not so great for mosquitos; Nepeta leaves may be effective at fending off pests because they cause pain to the buzzing bugs. Researchers initially theorized that catnipโs aroma was enough to repel the insects, but some studies show mosquitoes exposed to nepetalactone actuallyย feel pain or itchinessย in the same way humans experience the sensation of wasabi.
Indoor cats may not need mosquito protection, but catnip still provides a safe, effective way for them to calm down โย although scientists arenโt fully sureย howย it works. Itโs possible that catnip affects cat brains in the same way opioids work in humans to relieve pain: One study found that cats who were given naloxone โ a lifesaving medication that blocks opioid receptors and is used to treat narcotics overdoses โย didnโt have a reaction to catnip. Even so, catnip doesnโt work on all cats.ย Kittens wonโt respondย to the plantโs minty leaves until 3 to 6 months old; plus, catnip sensitivity is hereditary, and an estimated 50% of cats donโt experience any reaction at all. But if your cat just so happens to turn up its nose at fresh catnip, donโt worry. Humans can use it for aย calming teaย similar to chamomile.
Media Release/InterestingFacts.com
