So, catnip does not work for every kitty. In fact, genetically-speaking, some cats lack a
specific gene that creates that recognizable crazed response. So what if you really want to
up your game during playtime, but your fuzzy little buddy can't be bothered with the green
stuff? There are actually quite a few alternatives, some working in a similar fashion to catnip,
others having a completely different mechanism of action. Today, we will discuss some of the
more effective options and how you can utilize these delightful herbs in your own home.
Silver Vine (Japanese Catnip or Matatabi)
-What is Silver Vine?
Silver Vine - which is also known as Actinidia polygama, matatabi, cat powder, and silvervine
- is a native to the mountainous regions …show more content…
when dried, the scent is a little more like...
well... dirty feet - though, those who like it will contend it smells more like "fresh dirt."
-How Does Valerian Root Work?
Like other catnip alternatives, Valerian Root contains significant quantities of a compound
called Actinidine, which may be why it has such an intoxicating effect. However, the story
may not end there. Valerian also contains something called valeric acid, which some believe
has a pheromone-like effect.
-How to Use Valerian Root
Although this herb is safe for sniffing, you should avoid letting him eat or lick it. The dried
plant can be placed in soft cat toys, slotted balls, or pretty much any other plaything that you
can slip it into. Decoctions are also pretty useful when you want to attract your cat to
something like a post or a tree. If you don't want that... er... footy smell to linger in your
house, you can also just place a pinch of it in a plastic bottle, poke a few miniscule holes in
the walls or cap, and roll it around on the floor for a while. As an interesting side note,
Valerian Root is also thought to have other health benefits for cats - not to mention [you]
specific gene that creates that recognizable crazed response. So what if you really want to
up your game during playtime, but your fuzzy little buddy can't be bothered with the green
stuff? There are actually quite a few alternatives, some working in a similar fashion to catnip,
others having a completely different mechanism of action. Today, we will discuss some of the
more effective options and how you can utilize these delightful herbs in your own home.
Silver Vine (Japanese Catnip or Matatabi)
-What is Silver Vine?
Silver Vine - which is also known as Actinidia polygama, matatabi, cat powder, and silvervine
- is a native to the mountainous regions …show more content…
when dried, the scent is a little more like...
well... dirty feet - though, those who like it will contend it smells more like "fresh dirt."
-How Does Valerian Root Work?
Like other catnip alternatives, Valerian Root contains significant quantities of a compound
called Actinidine, which may be why it has such an intoxicating effect. However, the story
may not end there. Valerian also contains something called valeric acid, which some believe
has a pheromone-like effect.
-How to Use Valerian Root
Although this herb is safe for sniffing, you should avoid letting him eat or lick it. The dried
plant can be placed in soft cat toys, slotted balls, or pretty much any other plaything that you
can slip it into. Decoctions are also pretty useful when you want to attract your cat to
something like a post or a tree. If you don't want that... er... footy smell to linger in your
house, you can also just place a pinch of it in a plastic bottle, poke a few miniscule holes in
the walls or cap, and roll it around on the floor for a while. As an interesting side note,
Valerian Root is also thought to have other health benefits for cats - not to mention [you]