There's a scientific reason for the feline reaction: Catnip contains the oil nepetalactone, which binds to the cat's ...

According to expert vet, Dr Rebecca MacMillan, eating large volumes of catnip may cause mild digestive disturbances, but ...

Growing habits of catnip Growing best in USDA plant hardiness zones 3-9 and preferring temperatures between 55°F and 85°F, catnip plants are a frost hardy perennial, suitable for most yards.

"If eaten in small amounts you shouldn’t notice any more than catnip’s normal euphoric effects," Dr. MacMillan explains. "However, if your cat eats large amounts of plant material then it ...

go whacky for catnip? Then they are one of the 70 per cent of domestic cats, as well as some big cats like lions, who do. But how has this unassuming plant evolved to hold such power over our pets?