Catnip for Dogs: Exploring Its Effects and Benefits

While the effects of catnip on cats are well known, the question of whether the same effects occur in dogs emerges. The mint family member catnip is well recognised for its capacity to excite cats, causing everything from mellowness to hyperactivity. Surprisingly, this herb has a completely different impact on dogs, bringing about a state of calm and a reaction that is almost sedative-like.

A modest bit of catnip and a cozy bed can provide relief for dogs suffering from sleeplessness or anxiety, allowing them to sleep off their problems. But it’s important to recognise that catnip, like other things, has advantages and disadvantages, particularly in terms of possible overdose. 

If you’re experiencing anxiety and seek the companionship of your pet for emotional support while residing in the United States, obtaining an ESA doctor letter is crucial. This letter grants you the privilege to have your pet by your side, even in properties that typically do not allow pets. 

Is Catnip Effective for Dogs?

Although catnip is frequently thought of as having amusing effects on cats, it can be safe for dogs and may have some relaxing, digestive, and antibacterial benefits as well. Nepetalactone, a substance in catnip with possible sedative effects, has sedative and relaxing characteristics. It’s crucial to remember that dogs don’t always experience these consequences.

Nepetalactone effects cats by inducing playful excitement, particularly in cases of boredom or curiosity, often described as making them appear “high.” While catnip is more commonly associated with cats and is even found in cat toys, dogs can also experience certain benefits from it. However, it tends to be more of a short-term solution for behavioral issues like anxiety or digestive discomfort. For recurring or serious concerns, consulting a veterinarian is advisable.

Although there isn’t extensive research on how catnip precisely affects canines, some dogs may not react to it at all. Both cats and dogs possess vomeronasal organs, also known as Jacobson’s organs, which are associated with pheromones. Cats respond enthusiastically to catnip because its chemicals match the pheromones released by a female cat during oestrus. For dogs, this pheromone-like substance has different meanings, which is why many dogs don’t seem to respond to catnip in the same manner.

In essence, dogs do not react to catnip in the same way as cats do, which explains why some dogs do not experience the benefits of catnip. If they do, the reaction is often less intense than the feline frenzy it causes.

Is it Safe for Dogs to Consume Catnips?

The safety of dogs consuming catnip is somewhat uncertain, especially when it comes to determining a safe dosage. Catnip belongs to the mint family, which raises concerns because mint can be toxic to dogs in significant quantities. However, it appears that dogs can ingest small amounts of catnip without harm.

Therefore, if your dog happens to get into your kitten’s catnip toys and mistakes them for dog treats, there’s typically no need for immediate worry.

Understanding Catnip: A Herb with Unique Qualities

Catnip, a member of the mint family, is characterized by its unique heart-shaped leaves. The active ingredient in this perennial plant is nepetalactone, which is found in the stem, leaves, and pods. Catnip is also known by other names such as catmint, catwort, and field balm.

Throughout history, this herb has been employed for its medicinal properties, spanning thousands of years. Even today, we observe a continuation of its remedial use, particularly in dogs where it serves as a natural antiseptic. Additionally, humans often utilize catnip as a popular base for tea, appreciated for its calming effects.

Potential Health Advantages of Catnip for Dogs

Catnip has the potential to provide several benefits to dogs, including anxiety reduction, relief from stomach issues, promotion of improved sleep, and alleviation of nausea. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that this natural remedy must be administered with proper dosing, as excessive consumption can have adverse effects.

While in theory, catnip is believed to have a calming and relaxing effect on canines, it’s important to recognize the limited research available to substantiate its use on dogs, its specific effects, and even questions like ‘how long does catnip last on dogs?’ 

Nonetheless, let’s explore the potential benefits that catnip might offer to our canine companions.

  1. Calm Nervous Dogs with Catnip:

Nepetalactone, the catnip’s main ingredient, can benefit dogs by easing their anxiety and increasing relaxation. Crushing dry catnip and putting it in your pet’s food around 30 minutes before stressful circumstances, such as doctor appointments or situations with loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks, is one approach to give it.

While not all dogs react to catnip, some do enjoy an improvement in tranquility and relaxation, claims holistic veterinarian Dr Randy Kidd. But it’s important to realize that plants like catnip only provide short-term fixes. Dogs with extreme anxiety may need medical treatment, especially if they display symptoms like pacing, fast breathing, excessive vocalization, sadness, or house-urinating. In these circumstances, therapies include anxiety medications and behavior.

  1. Managing Motion Sickness:

Offering some catnip to dogs that are prone to motion sickness and discomfort during vehicle drives can be helpful. The herb can be used a few times in experiments to see if it makes a difference. If so, other options could be worth considering, such as avoiding feeding your dog before the journey or using anti-nausea medicine.

  1. Relief for Mild Tummy Issues:

Dogs that are experiencing stomach pain may benefit from catnip’s capacity to improve digestion. This plant, which belongs to the mint family, is well recognised for having digestive characteristics, which it shares with other mint family members that are also thought to improve human digestion. Catnip may be a useful treatment option for your dog if they are having indigestion or are having gassy stomach issues.

In addition, catnip contains beneficial minerals that benefit your dog’s overall health, including the vitamins C and E, flavonoids (phytonutrients), tannins, and magnesium. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that certain plant nutrients, like tannins, may have antinutrient characteristics and bind to other nutrients in the intestine, and that other plant essential oils, like those found in catnip, can be harmful to dogs.

  1. Enhancing Sleep Quality:

Because of its calming effects, catnip may be able to help dogs that have trouble falling asleep because of anxiety or restlessness.

  1. Natural Antiseptic Properties:

Catnip is a natural antibacterial and has therapeutic effects. Catnip and water may be combined to make a paste that you can use to treat any small cuts or wounds your dog may have received. Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it promotes healthy wound healing and lowers the risk of infections.

  1. Effective Natural Pest Repellent:

Catnip can work well as a flea and mosquito repellant when applied topically. The strong odor that this plant releases has been shown to be as effective as certain commercial insect repellents. Pests can be repelled from your surroundings by placing catnip plants throughout your yard.

Before using catnip, whether topically or in food and drink, it is best to consult your veterinarian, as with any herbal medicine. Your veterinarian can determine whether giving the herb to your dog is safe and can also provide you precise dose instructions.

How to Safely Administer Catnip to Dogs and Understanding Catnip Effects

The right dose is essential for getting catnip’s advantages for your dog. For dogs, a teaspoon or less of catnip sprinkled into their water or food dish usually suffices. It’s vital to remember that catnip should not be used as a regular supplement but rather sparingly, especially in situations of anxiety or gastrointestinal problems. Always talk to your vet before giving catnip to your dog, especially if the dog has a health issue that catnip can make worse. Catnip is unlikely to hurt your dog when utilized sparingly and irregularly.

Does Catnip Affect Dogs Like It Does Cats?

Dogs do not respond to catnip in the same “buzz” or euphoric manner as cats do. When exposed to catnip, cats can sometimes look practically “high,” while dogs normally react differently—if they react at all—becoming more relaxed and peaceful. The different ways that dogs and cats’ brains are connected can be used to explain the differences in how they react.

The main ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, stimulates the vomeronasal organs of cats, which are located at the back of their noses. This catnip ingredient imitates the pheromones given forth by females that are in heat, sending cats into a frenzy. Despite having vomeronasal organs as well, dogs do not respond to nepetalactone compounds in the same manner as cats do.

If you’re someone seeking to have your dog accompany you for emotional support in your property, obtaining an ESA letter for dog is essential. 

Vivek is a published author of Meidilight and a cofounder of Zestful Outreach Agency. He is passionate about helping webmaster to rank their keywords through good-quality website backlinks. In his spare time, he loves to swim and cycle. You can find him on Twitter and Linkedin.