![]() For these reasons, catnip is often used (in its dried form) to encourage cats to use their scratching posts – as opposed to the arm of our expensive new sofa. ![]() Many cats are certainly very attracted to catnip and will actively seek it out in their environment. However, other scientists argue all cats may possess the ability to react to catnip, but that some are active and others more passive responders, with differences in intensities of reactions influenced by their age, sex and neuter status. Interestingly, the ability to respond to catnip is thought to be heritable, with around one in three adult cats seemingly immune to its effect. These mind-altering affects can typically last between five and 15 minutes, although some cats will respond much more intensely and for longer than others. This chemical is thought to bind to protein receptors within the cat’s nose which then stimulate sensory neurons that lead to changes in brain activity. Responses to catnip typically include sniffing, licking, biting, rubbing or rolling on the plant, head shaking, drooling, vocalising and even kicking with the hind feet.Ĭatnip’s status as kitty kryptonite is due to a specific chemical compound called nepalacatlone that the plant naturally releases when its leaves or stem are bruised. Nepeta cataria, or more commonly known as catnip is a plant native to parts of Europe and Asia that is well known for its cat-attracting (and craze-inducing) properties among domestic cats and several other (non-domesticated) felids, including lions, leopards and jaguars. When it comes to their seemingly weird reactions to things, their response to an unassuming plant belonging to the mint family is no exception. In terms of cats’ pure entertainment value, however, our fascinations are probably attributable to their seemingly endless repertoire of bizarre behaviours.įrom being able to “trap” your cat by simply drawing a square around them, to cats seemingly freaking out when presented with a cucumber (I don’t condone this latter activity on cat welfare grounds), our feline companions are as entertaining as they are perplexing. Please note that our spay/neuter surgery APPOINTMENTS are still open to all, regardless of residency.There are many valid theories to explain the global appeal of cats, including our obsession with watching videos of them online. If you live outside of Isabella County, please call your local Humane Society or Shelter for veterinary resources in your area. This will ensure that we can provide quality services to all that attend. **Due to high demand and long lines that we have been struggling to serve, we must begin limiting our WALK-IN vaccine & microchip clinics to only Isabella County residents. > Environment is not suitable for dogs that are reactive to other pets or people. > Previous rabies certificate must be presented to receive 3 year rabies vaccine. Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be leashed. ![]() > Walk-in services are available to Isabella County residents only. Location: The HATS Health Clinic at 1105 S Isabella Rd in Mt. ![]() We do not take appointments for these services. Vaccines and microchips are available to patients on their surgery day or by attending a walk-in clinic day. ![]()
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