Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats?
- Rachel
- Jun 6, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: 17 hours ago
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What Is Catnip and How Does It Affect Cats?
As a cat parent, you'll most definitely be familiar with catnip and the euphoric effect it has on our furry friends. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb belonging to the mint family that can be bought in dried blends, sprays and stuffed inside toys to aid interaction and stimulate playful behaviour. Cats will generally sniff the substance, but it can also be eaten in small amounts.
In a hyperactive response, you might see cats nuzzling toys or zooming around on a kitty "high". Some cats zone out or appear sedated, while others could be immune. Either way, these mind-altering effects are temporary and generally last between 5-15 minutes.
Related post: 15 Best Catnip Toys, Blends and Sprays
To get extra scientific, the active ingredient in catnip is a chemical compound called nepetalactone. A cat's nasal cavity is lined with a specialised tissue known as the olfactory epithelium (detects smells). When nepetalactone enters the nasal tissues, it binds to the olfactory receptors and this sends signals to the brain.
Some scientists believe the brain interprets them as pheromones, which triggers a release of endorphins - chemicals related to mood and happiness. This is known to cause an almost hallucinogenic feeling in cats, but don't worry! It's completely natural and non-addictive to your fur children.
Furthermore, catnip stimulates an area of the brain that's responsible for sexual behaviours. When under the influence, cats may act in a similar fashion to being in heat or responding to sex pheromones.
Johnson's Catnip Spray contains oil from the dried leaves of catmint. It can be applied to bedding, toys, scratch posts or anywhere you want to encourage some kitty interaction.
Is Catnip the Same As Catmint?
While catnip and catmint come from the same family, they're two different plants with different properties. Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) contains a compound called nepetalactol, which is less potent than that found in catnip. It's therefore commonly known for its calming effects and can be used to help with stress and anxiety. Again, this will vary from cat to cat, although I can say that one of my kitties isn't a fan of the minty aroma.
Is Catnip Safe for Kittens?
Catnip is safe for cats of all ages and can be offered to kittens in moderation; however, they generally won't respond until 3-6 months of age. This could be due to not being sexually mature, as their brains aren't developed enough to react to nepetalactone.
If catnip has no effect on your kitten after this time period, try again in monthly intervals. It's not uncommon to take up to a year before cats start responding to the substance.
Can I Give Catnip to Pregnant Cats?
There's no definitive evidence for or against offering catnip to pregnant cats. While it's unlikely to cause harm, it can stimulate the uterus to contract in the later stages of pregnancy. Evidence is based on catnip being used in traditional medicine to induce labour in humans, but research into the effects on felines is limited.
Catnip is well known for its stress-relieving properties, which some experts believe to be beneficial during pregnancy; however, cats can become highly excitable under the influence. It's generally not recommended for expectant mothers due to the risk of delivering her litter prematurely or injuring them during a hyperactive episode.
That being said, since catnip is believed to mimic the pheromones associated with sexual behaviour, some owners find that pregnant cats don't respond to nepetalactone. This could be due to hormonal changes altering a cat's sensitivity levels, or behavioural changes associated with pregnancy. The exact reasons aren't entirely understood and more research is needed.
Advice on giving catnip to nursing queens is also variable, with some sources claiming that it's safe and others warning against the risks of distracting a mother from tending to her kittens. It's usually best to wait until kittens have been weaned before taking any unnecessary risks. If you decide to offer a small dose of catnip, only do so under supervision and carefully monitor your cat's behaviour.
Pet Touch Catnip Bubbles are made with natural catnip oil and water, which is safe and non-toxic for cats. Contains 2x 120ml bottles and the solution can also be used with a bubble gun.
What Is Silvervine and How Does It Affect Cats?
Silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a climbing plant native to East Asia, named for its silver-white leaves and flowers. Cats are usually most reactive to products made from the plant's gall fruit, which occurs when insects lay eggs or larvae on the fruit. This creates galls which are lumps containing a higher concentration of the active ingredients.
The three main forms of silvervine you can purchase for cats are:
Powder, which is produced from the plant's gall fruit and likely to pack a bigger punch. I like this option from Mew & Friends, and the best news is they also offer premium organic catnip!
Sticks, also known as Matatabi sticks, are commonly used to support dental health, as well as making fun toys. Chewing on silvervine can help to clean a cat's teeth by reducing tartar build-up, and there are plenty of styles to choose from for those fussy felines.
Toys that are already infused with silvervine, simply throw and watch!
Although not particularly well known in the Western world, probably due to silvervine only growing in certain areas, it's one of the most popular cat treats in China and Japan. According to studies, the percentage of cats that respond to silvervine is 80% in comparison to catnip's 68%. This doesn't seem like a huge difference, but amongst that 80% are cats that don't respond to catnip.
With an estimated 11 million cat owners in the UK, it begs the question: why isn't silvervine more available? With a lack of products on the market, especially in relation to catnip, one has to wonder if the hype is exactly that.
Silvervine vs Catnip: What's the Difference?
The main difference between catnip and silvervine is their raw or natural forms, to which the clue is in the name. While catnip is a herb, silvervine is a climbing plant with not one, but two types of attractants. As we know, the active ingredient in catnip is nepetalactone, whereas silvervine contains both Actinide and dihydroactinidiolide, making it a more potent substance.
3-in-1 Catnip Balls include catnip, silvervine, gall fruit and cat sugar. Natural plant fibres help to stimulate appetite, promote digestion and improve dental health. Sticks to a smooth wall or surface and available in multiple colours to match your decor.
The effects are similar to catnip and both can be used simultaneously, although cats are known to be easily bored. Silvervine presents an opportunity to switch things up when catnip loses its effect. It can also be used to promote exercise for cats that are overweight or lacking stimulation, which is particularly important for indoor cats.
For more tips and advice, check out this playful post on how to play with cats of all ages.
Is Silvervine Safe for Cats?
Silvervine is perfectly safe for cats and there have been no known reports of toxicity, adverse reactions or addiction. Technically, cats can't overdose on the substance by smell alone, although it should be eaten in moderation to avoid stomach problems such as vomiting or diarrhoea (the same can be said for any cat treat). The only issue you might face is your kitty becoming desensitised - or more likely, bored.
Silvervine sticks will need replacing once they're worn down as they can break apart and become a choking hazard or cause internal obstructions. While any adverse reactions to silvervine are unlikely, if you do notice anything then discontinue use and consult your local vet.
How Do I Use Silvervine?
Silvervine should be used in the same manner as catnip, starting with a small pinch to test the effect it has and offering more as required. As a general guide, moderation is key for an enjoyable experience and to prevent overstimulation.
You can sprinkle silvervine powder on toys, scratch posts and bedding - a quarter to half a teaspoon should be adequate for one sitting. Each cat will react differently so you can adjust the amount based on your cat's specific reaction. If it has no effect whatsoever then don't feel the need to keep adding more because, chances are, your cat isn't interested.
If using sticks, offer one at a time under supervision to begin with. You may see your cat gnawing, licking, rubbing or tossing it around. Remember to replace when necessary and keep an eye out for any splinters or breakages.
Silvervine chew sticks with Lafite grass, catnip filling, hanging gall fruit and sisal rope for safety and durability. Aids stress relief, promotes gut function, reduces furballs and eliminates dental plaque.
Summary
In the battle of silvervine vs catnip, neither are better or worse for cats than the other. The properties of silvervine, with two active ingredients for double the potency, make it a strong competitor. Despite a lack of availability, the extra benefits and variety of silvervine chew sticks swing it for me, with the option of incorporated feathers, bells and other kitty favourites.
If your cat isn't interested in catnip then there's a good chance it'll be more reactive to silvervine, and it's completely safe to try. Of course, the final verdict lies with our four-legged friends!
Join me for some kitty crazy silvervine product reviews, where I put this "magic dust" to the test using my own little helpers.
Mentioned Products
Have you tried any silvervine products? Do they live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments!
Does your kitty have a favourite?
0%Catnip.
0%Silvervine.
0%Both.
0%Neither.
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