Dec 25, 2009
Catnip (Nepeta cataria), also known as catmint or catnep, is a hardy perennial (occurring every year) herb that belongs to the mint family (Labiatae). All species of the cat family (Felidae) are attracted to catnip. Mountain lions, lynx, tigers, lions, and domesticated cats roll over, rub their face, extend their claws, and do a body twist in a patch of catnip.
Cats are presumably reacting to catnip's strong odor. The oil from catnip leaves contains a chemical called trans-neptalactone, the odor of which closely resembles a substance present in a female cat's urine.
Sources: Horticulture, vol. 59 (January 1981), p. 14; Taylor, David. You and Your Cat, p. 33; The Wise Garden Encyclopedia, pp. 208, 264.
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