Our domestic felines, with their independent yet sociable behaviour, continue to captivate the curiosity of pet owners and researchers alike. Among the various feline enigmas, the sensitivity to catnip stands out as a particularly intriguing phenomenon. The science behind catnip sensitivity involves a combination of genetics, neurobiology, and chemical compounds which together determine whether or not your particular furry companion will or will not be highly responsive to this aromatic herb.
Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is an herb that belongs to the mint family. A mild sedative, historically people have used it for things like insomnia, anxiety, digestive issues, menstrual cramps – in ancient Egypt, medieval Europe, and the indigenous Americas. It is still utilized in herbal remedies today, though scientific evidence supporting its medicinal benefits remains limited. It can also be used as a culinary herb (with a minty flavour profile with hints of lemon) but perhaps its most notorious effect is its ability to induce a euphoric and playful response in cats. However, not all cats are equally sensitive to catnip, and the degree of responsiveness varies widely among individuals.
Chemical Compound
The key to catnip’s effect on cats lies in its chemical composition. The plant contains an organic compound called nepetalactone (for science geeks it’s a terpenoid compound), which is found in the leaves, stems, and seeds. Nepetalactone is released when the catnip plant is crushed or bruised, which then activates the olfactory receptors in a cat’s nose. These receptors, located in the nasal tissue, send signals to the brain, triggering a series of behavioural responses.
Did You Know? While nepetalactone itself is not an oil, it is often used in the form of essential oils extracted from catnip plants. Catnip-infused cat toys, sprays and treats often use these essential oils rather than the herb itself because it is easier to control the concentration and application of nepetalactone in order to reliably stimulate your cat.
When cats encounter catnip, they may exhibit behaviours such as rolling, rubbing, purring, and overall hyperactivity. Some cats may also display more intense reactions, including vocalizations and apparent euphoria. The duration of these responses can vary, typically lasting for around 10 to 15 minutes, after which the cats sensitive to catnip usually become temporarily immune to the herb’s effects.
The Genetic Factor
The sensitivity to catnip is not a universal trait among all cats. The reaction to catnip seems to be an inherited trait, and approximately 50-75% of cats are affected by it. Kittens and elderly cats generally show less interest in catnip than adults.
The genetic basis for catnip sensitivity involves a specific gene, known as the nepetalactone receptor gene. Cats that possess a particular variant of this gene are more likely to be sensitive to catnip. This genetic predisposition is inherited from their parents, and it is thought to be an autosomal dominant trait, meaning that a cat needs only one copy of the gene (from one of its parents) to be sensitive to catnip. Still, though only one parent needs to pass along the trait, a surprising 25-50% of domestic cats still show no interest in catnip.
The reasons behind this are not entirely clear. One hypothesis for genetic non-responsiveness is that cats may have evolved in different regions in the wild, and catnip sensitivity may not have conferred a survival advantage for them.
The Role of the Olfactory System
As I mentioned above, the olfactory system, or the sense of smell, also plays an important role in a cat’s response to catnip. Nepetalactone binds to receptors in the cat’s nasal tissue, particularly the olfactory sensory neurons. These neurons send signals to the vomeronasal organ, also known as Jacobson’s organ, which is responsible for detecting pheromones.
Did You Know? Not all wild cats share the same sensitivity as our pet cats. Some members of the big cat family, for example, like lions and leopards, have been observed to react to catnip. With others, like tigers, catnip seems to have no effect. This suggests that genetic-related catnip sensitivity may not be consistent across all feline species.
Pheromones are chemical substances produced and released by animals, including cats, that influence the behaviour or physiology of other individuals. These chemicals can only be detected by members of the same species. For cats, pheromones play a crucial role in communication, marking territory, attracting mates, and signaling various emotional states such as relaxation or stress.
Why is the Effect Temporary?
One intriguing aspect of catnip sensitivity is its temporary nature. After a cat has been exposed to catnip and experienced the euphoric response, it becomes temporarily immune to the effects for a period ranging from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. This period is good as it ensures that your cat won’t become overstimulated when exposed or desensitized to catnip in the long-term.
While we believe that receptors in the cat’s olfactory neurons may undergo a temporary inactivation or down-regulation in response to catnip exposure, unfortunately more research is again needed for us to completely understand the specific processes at play.
In unraveling the science behind catnip sensitivity, we delve into the intricate world of feline genetics and neurobiology. The interplay of specific genes, olfactory receptors, and chemical compounds like nepetalactone creates a unique and sometimes mystifying experience for cats. Understanding why some cats are highly responsive to catnip while others show little to no interest adds another layer to the rich tapestry of feline behavior. As researchers continue to explore the complexities of catnip sensitivity, we gain valuable insights into the genetic factors shaping the peculiarities of our feline companions. The science behind catnip sensitivity is a testament to the endlessly fascinating and often whimsical nature of the cat kingdom.