A highly unserious field note
Catnip:
the good
stuff.
A little leaf with an almost mythical ability to turn a dignified cat into a joyous, rolling, floor-dwelling noodle.
No—do not confuse this with weed. Catnip and marijuana are unrelated plants. If a cat is exposed to marijuana, it can be toxic: signs can range from marked sleepiness and wobbliness to agitation or hyperactivity. If you suspect exposure, contact a veterinarian promptly.
RUB
REPEAT
Every cat has a different move.
Some become wildly playful. Some go soft and dreamy. Some stare into the middle distance as if they have just received a private message from the universe.
The only consistent result? A very good time, judged exclusively by the cat.
Return to regularly scheduled admiration ↗The playtime method
Make it a
toy, not a snack.
The best way to give a cat catnip is not to hand it over in a little pile. Put it in something they can hunt, kick, carry, and dramatically defeat.
A simple catnip-filled sock toy is a favorite: fill it, tie it securely, and let your cat roll around with their brand-new personal nemesis. It gives them something soft to rub against, chase across the floor, and clutch with all four paws.
Keep play supervised, make sure the sock is securely closed, and swap it out if it becomes damaged. The cat may not say thank you—but the floor acrobatics will make the point.