Catnip balls are a safe and amusing plant that can enrich a cat’s life. They contain a compound called nepetalactone, which stimulates a cat’s olfactory system. Typical reactions include rolling, rubbing the head or body, licking and chewing the plant, excited jumping, or purring and meowing. These behaviors usually last 5-15 minutes. Statistics show that 50-70% of cats enter a one-hour refractory period, temporarily losing interest in catnip.
1. Can cats become addicted to catnip?
Catnip balls are harmless to cats and do not cause addiction or long-term health issues.
What are the benefits of catnip balls for cats?
Catnip balls can stimulate a cat’s interest in play, promote activity, and trigger their hunting instincts, encouraging them to actively chase and pounce on rolling spheres. These are particularly effective for lazy or overweight cats, helping them burn energy and maintain a healthy weight.