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Catnip Toys for Cats

Keeping your kitty entertained can take a little effort at times. There are feathered cat wand toys, scratching posts, interactive and electronic cat toys, even cardboard boxes—and catnip, of course. Catnip is a plant in the mint family popular in herb gardens and even more so with any feline friend in your house.

The allure of catnip toys for cats comes down to a chemical in the oil of the plant found in its leaves, stems and seeds. One tiny whiff of this potent oil and your kitty’s happy receptors in their brain start lighting up. This is when you’ll see them react—and how they respond to catnip often depends on the cat.

Some felines experience a deep and encompassing sense of relaxation. Other cats might get playful, hyper, and meow more than usual. However they react, it’s usually fairly short-lived. Most cats have these heightened sensations for about 10 minutes.

If you want to let your kitty have some extra fun with a refillable catnip toy, Petco has a wide range of enjoyable options. If you’re looking for even more toys for your feline family member to enjoy, you’ll find mice and plush cat toys, cat chew toys and even kitten toys for the little ones. Shop your neighborhood Petco Pet Care Center or buy online and choose Curbside Pickup at checkout for extra savings. 

FAQs About Catnip Toys for Cats

If you want to let your kitten experience elevated moods with a natural catnip toy, you might be worried about their safety. Luckily—when used correctly—catnip is not typically harmful to kittens. However, most felines don’t react to catnip toys for cats until they’re a little older—typically from 6 months to 1 year of age. There can be exceptions, and some kittens may be able to get catnip happy, but normally their sensitivity will increase with age.

Whether you are buying bulk catnip or have given your kitty a catnip cigar cat toy or catnip mouse toy, there is a point where catnip will lose its potency. Most often, catnip can last for around six months, depending on how it’s stored. If you’ve noticed that your cat no longer reacts to its catnip toys, it may be time for a refresh. Petco sells refillable catnip toys if your cat loves their toy and you don’t want to keep buying new ones.

In general, catnip can potentially elevate your cat’s mood. It can also be used to encourage play sessions to help them be more physically and mentally active. For some kitties, it can sedate and relax them. Finally, it can be used as a tool for training to promote positive reinforcement for good behavior.

Give your kitty the gift of fun and happiness when you buy your catnip toys for cats online or at your neighborhood Petco Pet Care Center.  

Many pet parents report that their cats will naturally lose interest in catnip after 10 or 15 minutes. Every cat is different. Try spending some time observing how your cat reacts to catnip for the first time, and gradually let them play with catnip every few days for a few minutes to see how they respond. Even if your cat is unaffected by the catnip, they may still enjoy playing with their new toy.

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