I remember having cats in the past who just were not "into" catnip like some others were. You might have a cat who is the same... turns out as many as 30% of cats actually do not react at all to catnip as the trait is genetically passed down and cats either react, or do not at all. Well, for these kitties who are lacking the sensitivity to this "feel-good" plant, it is a good thing that there is another plant called the Silvervine plant that many cats will also react to! I wish everyone knew this information so hopefully no kitty has to go his/her life without this added stimulating plant fun!
Silver vine has long been known to elicit euphoric response in cats.The reaction to silver vine is similar to the catnipresponse, but appears to be more intense.Silver vine is an alternative to catnip, and many cats that don't react to catnip will respond positively to silver vine powder made from dried fruit galls.Typical behaviors include rolling, chin and cheek rubbing, drooling, and licking. The effect usually lasts between five and 30 minutes, but cats are typically unresponsive to the plant for one or more hours.
A study published in January 2021 suggests that felines are specifically attracted to theiridoids, napetalactol, and nepatalactone, present in silver vine and catnip, respectively.The compounds were found to repel mosquitos, and it is hypothesized that rubbing against the plants provides the cats with a chemical coat that protects them against mosquito bites.
There are several different companies now proving silvervine chew sticks for cats, just be certain to look for ones which are 100% natural and not grown or sprayed with chemicals.
We also offer a great catnip and silvervine powder blend on our website so you can purchase in the combo and increase your chance that your cat is going to have a great fun reaction to one or both of the plants!
