What is catnip

Norman LOVES Catnip! He will chew it, eat it, lick it, roll in it and smell it. After only a few
minutes with his favorite treat, Norman becomes very playful and frisky. He often runs
around the house like psycho kitty terrorizing Kiwi and Kylie and ambushing Penny the
Beagle.. Eventually, after the Catnip wears off, he curls up on the couch and takes a very
long nap.

I did a little research to find out exactly what Catnip is. I figured I should know since I give
it to Norman quite regularly. I would feel horrible if I turned my feline into a junkie drooling
for his next fix. Here's what I found…..

Catnip, a member of the mint family, is a harmless "high" for felines. Although many cats
will eat it, scientists say they're reacting to the smell rather than the taste. Felines bite,
chew, rub against, and roll in catnip to release the volatile oil trapped in the leaves. Catnip
is harvested when this essential oil production reaches its peak, and leaves and fragrant
flowers are carefully air-dried to preserve essential oils at their best.

About 80% of adult cats (including lions, pumas, and leopards) react to this irresistible, intoxicating, analgesic soporific. The
tendency to like or ignore catnip is inherited, and it's true that some cats are immune to its influence.
Norman is obviously NOT immune to catnip. Most of his toys are stuffed with this dried up kitty delicacy. I'm just happy that it
is not addictive or harmful as the last thing I want is for Norman to end up living in my basement…watching tv all
day…chewing on catnip and consuming box after box of Meow Mix. That would not be a good life for my Normie.