Key Takeaways
| Fact | Details |
| Can cats eat catnip? | Yes, cats can safely eat catnip, albeit in small amounts. |
| Are catnips beneficial for cats? | Catnip can help reduce anxiety and even relieve pain. Some veterinarians have recommended using catnip to help with separation anxiety. |
| How to feed catnips to cats? | The catnip plant has actually been used in people for its antidiarrheal properties. With this said, it is important to prevent your cat from ingesting large amounts of catnip, as this can cause digestive upset. |
Understanding Feline Dietary Needs
Cats, being obligate carnivores, primarily require a diet rich in proteins. Their bodies are designed to derive nutrients from meat, not plants. However, this doesn’t mean that they can’t consume non-meat items like catnip. In fact, many commercial cat foods include catnip as a harmless filler.
The Role of Catnip in a Cat’s Diet
Catnip can play a beneficial role in a cat’s diet under certain circumstances. Here are some key points to consider:
- Antioxidants: Catnip is high in antioxidants which are thought to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer effects.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Catnip is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
- Treat: If your feline friend simply loves catnip, an unseasoned nibble here or there won’t hurt her.
However, it’s important to remember that while catnip isn’t harmful to cats, they should only make up a small part of their diet.
Feeding Your Cat Catnip: Dos and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Wash the catnip to remove any pesticides | Do not give them in large amounts as they are high in sugar |
| Cut them into small cubes so your cats can eat them easily | Do not give prepared catnips — i.e canned catnips, or catnips in a pie |
Related Questions
Can Cats Eat Catnip Extract?
Yes, cats can eat catnip extract. Given the high sugar content in catnips, it’s reasonable to think catnip extract has a lot of sugars. The good news is catnip extract does not affect the blood sugar levels in cats, so it’s safe to eat in small quantities.
Are Catnips Good for Cats?
Not only are catnips safe for cats, they probably give them some health benefits, too. That’s one of the reasons they are included in many pet foods. They also make a great healthy treat that’s lower in calories than many cat treats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while cats can eat catnips, it should only make up a small part of their diet. Always consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your pet’s diet.