Does Catnip Expire?

​Catnip is the herb that makes cats go a little bit wild! They love to roll around in it, eat it, and hate when it gets taken from them! Cat owners all over the world love to buy it for them as a little treat that can be enjoyed sparingly. 

However, cat owners should be aware of catnip basics before they can think about giving it to their cat to ensure their cat’s safety and well-being. This includes understanding what it is when to use it, and if it expires. 

So, in this article, we will discuss whether or not catnip expires and more. If you’re a first-time cat owner or have a general interest in cats and catnip, then read on! 

​What Is Catnip?

​Catnip, sometimes called catmint, comes from a plant that looks similar to mint known as Nepeta cataria. Nepeta cataria is native to Asia and Europe, but can also be found growing in North America along the highways and roads. 

Catnip is a gray-green colored plant that has slightly jagged leaves shaped like hearts. It has thick stems that are covered in hairs.

​Does Catnip Expire?

No, catnip does not expire! Catnip will not go bad and is suitable for your cats to eat no matter when you bought it. However, catnip does gradually become less potent and therefore has less of an effect on cats.

​So, it is best to use it sooner, rather than later. This is because catnip is a herb, so it is best enjoyed when it is new, dry, and fresh. While it will never expire, the longer it sits in your cupboard, the less your cat will enjoy it.

A great way to extend the shelf life of the catnip you purchase is by keeping it in a tightly-sealed bag (typically plastic) or container.

​can catnip spray go bad?

Yes, catnip spray can go bad or lose its potency over time. Catnip spray contains the essential oils extracted from the catnip plant (Nepeta cataria), which is what attracts and affects cats. As with many natural oils and extracts, its potency and freshness can diminish with time and under certain conditions. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Expiry Date: Many catnip sprays will have a recommended use-by or expiry date. It's a good idea to adhere to this date, as the effectiveness of the spray may decrease after it.
2. Storage: Exposure to direct sunlight, heat, or air can degrade the essential oils in catnip spray faster. It's best to store it in a cool, dark place and ensure the cap is tightly closed after each use.
3. Smell and Appearance: If the catnip spray develops an off or rancid smell, it's a sign that it has gone bad. The appearance of mold or any other discoloration also indicates spoilage.
4. Cat's Reaction: One of the most obvious signs the catnip spray might be past its prime is if your cat shows diminished or no interest in objects sprayed with it, especially if they used to react strongly before.
   
5. Ingredients and Preservatives: Some catnip sprays may contain preservatives to extend shelf life, while others might be all-natural. Check the product's label for information about its contents and any specific storage recommendations.
   
   ​It's always a good idea to purchase catnip spray from reputable brands and sellers to ensure the quality and safety of the product. If in doubt, refreshing your supply can help ensure your cat gets the maximum enjoyment out of the catnip experience.
   

What is the shelflife of dried catnip?

Dried catnip can retain its potency for varying lengths of time depending on how it's stored, but typically, its effective shelf life is between 6 months to 2 years. Here are a few factors that affect the shelf life of dried catnip:

1. Storage Conditions: Keeping dried catnip in a cool, dark, and dry place can maximize its shelf life. Exposure to moisture can lead to mold, while light and heat can degrade the essential oils that give catnip its potency.
2. Packaging: An airtight container or sealable plastic bag can help prevent the catnip from getting stale and losing its potency. Vacuum-sealed packaging is especially effective for longer storage.
3. Potency Over Time: While dried catnip might still be safe for cats to consume after its peak potency, its effectiveness in eliciting a response from your cat may diminish over time.
4. Smell: Fresh and potent dried catnip has a distinct aroma. If the scent is weak or non-existent, it's likely that the catnip has lost its potency.
5. Appearance: If you notice any mold, discoloration, or other signs of spoilage, discard the catnip.
6. Cat's Reaction: As with catnip spray, one of the most telling signs of the potency of dried catnip is your cat's reaction to it. If they show little to no interest, it might be time to replace your stash.
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To get the most out of your dried catnip, consider buying it in smaller amounts that you'll use up within a few months. This ensures that you're always offering your cat a fresh and potent treat or toy. If you grow your own catnip and dry it at home, make sure to store it properly to maintain its effectiveness for as long as possible.

can I grow my own Frest catnip?

​Yes, you can absolutely grow your own catnip! Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family and is relatively easy to grow. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow catnip:
1. Choose a Location:

• Catnip prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade.
• It isn't too particular about soil quality, but well-draining soil is ideal.

2. Planting:

• From Seeds: Start catnip seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Plant them just below the soil surface. Once seedlings are a few inches tall and all risk of frost has passed, transplant them outside, spacing them about 18-20 inches apart.
• From Seedlings or Plants: If you buy young plants or have started your seeds indoors, plant them in the ground after the last frost.

3. Watering:

• Catnip doesn't require a lot of water. Watering it once a week should suffice unless you're experiencing very dry conditions.

4. Maintenance:

• Catnip can become invasive in some gardens. To prevent it from overtaking other plants, consider planting it in a pot or container.
• Regularly harvest the top third of the plant to encourage bushier growth. This will also delay flowering, which can help increase the potency of the plant.
• If you let your catnip flower, consider deadheading spent blooms to prevent excessive self-seeding.

5. Harvesting and Storing:

• You can harvest catnip leaves at any time, but the potency is highest just before flowering.
• To dry catnip, tie bunches of stems together and hang them upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area. Once dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store in an airtight container.

6. Pests and Problems:

• While catnip can repel certain pests like aphids and squash bugs, it might attract cats, which can be both a joy and a challenge. Some cats might roll in, chew, or otherwise damage the plants. Consider placing a protective barrier or cage around your plants or planting some catnip away from main garden areas as a decoy.
• Catnip can also be susceptible to certain fungal diseases, especially in areas with high humidity.

7. Propagation:

• Catnip can be easily propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.

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Growing your own catnip is not only a fun gardening project, but it also ensures that you have a fresh and organic supply for your feline friend. Whether you use it for toys, teas, or just enjoy its fragrant blooms, catnip can be a delightful addition to your garden.

Why Does Catnip Have An Effect On Cats?

​Inside catnip, you will find a psychoactive chemical compound known as nepetalactone. Nepetalactone will bind to a cat’s nose receptors which causes a neurological response in cats, very similar to the neurological response a cat has after pheromone exposure. 

Cats will behave in a different way when they are exposed to catnip because the area of the brain that will respond to catnip is responsible for controlling emotions and behavior. 

Sadly, scientists do not yet know why nepetalactone inspires such a strong reaction from cats.

How Long Does A Catnip High Last?

A catnip high can last anywhere between ten minutes to a whole hour, and it depends entirely on your cat. Catnip will not affect every cat, and this seems to be an inherited trait.

So, if the parents of your cat did not feel the impact of catnip, then there’s a high chance your cat will not, either. 

Around 70% of all felines like catnip, and it can even affect wild cat species, such as tigers! 

An important fact to note about catnip is that it does not affect kittens before they are three months old. Sometimes, it will not affect kittens until after they are six months old!

​After this time, something changes with their development (although, it is not known exactly what!) and this permits their brain to react to and enjoy catnip!

​How Long Does Catnip Last In A Toy?

​The potency of catnip in a toy largely depends on various factors, including the quality of the catnip, the toy's material, how often the toy is played with, and the storage conditions. Here's a general overview of how long catnip might last in a toy:

1. Duration of Potency: The effects of catnip in a toy can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Over time, the essential oil in catnip that induces the euphoric response in cats (nepetalactone) tends to dissipate, especially if the toy is frequently played with. When this happens, the toy becomes less enticing.
2. Factors Affecting Duration:
   • Quality of Catnip: Premium, high-quality catnip tends to be more potent and may last longer in a toy compared to a lesser-quality variant.
   • Toy Material: Some materials may preserve catnip's potency better than others. For instance, a tightly sealed toy might retain the scent longer than a loosely woven one.
   • Play Frequency: A toy that's frequently played with will likely lose its potency faster because the physical action releases the essential oils and causes them to dissipate more quickly.
   • Storage: If you want to prolong the effectiveness of a catnip toy, consider storing it in an airtight container or bag when not in use. Some pet owners even store catnip toys in the freezer to help maintain potency.
3. Refreshing the Toy: If you find that the catnip's effect is waning, you can "refresh" the toy by adding more dried catnip or spraying it with catnip spray. Some toys come with a refillable pouch that allows you to add fresh catnip.
4. Alternatives: As mentioned previously, not all cats respond to catnip. If your cat is among those that don't, consider trying toys filled with alternative enticements like silver vine or valerian root.

In conclusion, while the exact duration catnip remains potent in a toy can vary, proper storage and occasional refreshment can extend the life and attractiveness of your cat's favorite plaything.

​What Are The Best Ways To Use Catnip?

Let’s check out some of the best ways you can use catnip!

Playing

Catnip is most commonly used when trying to encourage cats to explore their surroundings or play.

Training

Catnip can be very useful when it comes to training your cat.  For example, If you place a little catnip on your cat’s scratching post, it can encourage them to scratch it. And, placing some catnip inside their carrier will help your cat go inside it. 

Reduce Anxiety

Catnip can actually help your cat to relax, and reduce their levels of stress or anxiety. Catnip can even help relieve any mild pain your cat may be experiencing!

​What Are Types Of Catnip?

All catnip is the same, but you can get it in different forms, such as:

• Dried catnip 
• Fresh catnip
• Toys filled with dried catnip 
• Catnip bubbles/sprays 

If you find that your cat gets an upset tummy from ingesting the herb, then investing in a catnip spray may be a good option for them to still enjoy it!

​With a catnip spray, you will be able to spray their scratching post, cat tree, or favorite toy, and this will allow your cat to enjoy the effects of catnip without the upset tummy afterward.

​Is Catnip Harmful To Cats?

No, catnip is nontoxic, and therefore not harmful to cats. However, there is a chance that your cat could overindulge in catnip, and this can make them quite sick, causing diarrhea and vomiting. This can result in dehydration for your cat. 

So, if you notice that your cat seems a bit too interested in catnip, then it may be a good idea to limit their exposure to it. 

Additionally, it is important to note that if your cat has asthma, then it is important to check with the vet before allowing them exposure to catnip.

​This is because dried catnip in particular has been known to result in breathing problems for cats who are asthmatic.

How Often Can You Give a Cat Catnip?

Catnip, when given in moderation, is generally safe for cats and can provide them with a lot of enjoyment. Here's a general guideline for offering catnip to your feline friend:
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          Frequency:

1. Occasional Use: For most cats, offering catnip once a week or even less frequently is sufficient. This occasional exposure helps ensure that your cat doesn't become desensitized to catnip's effects. If a cat is exposed to catnip too often, they may become less responsive to it over time.
2. Response Monitoring: Observe how your cat reacts to catnip. Most cats exhibit behaviors like rolling, rubbing, purring, jumping, or even mild aggression. These reactions typically last for about 10 to 15 minutes, after which the cat becomes temporarily "immune" to catnip's effects for a while.
3. Different Forms: Catnip can be provided in various forms: fresh, dried, in sprays, or as a stuffing in toys. If you're using catnip spray or toys filled with catnip, your cat might be exposed to it more often, but the intensity of the response might vary.
   
   Things to Consider:
4. Age: Not all cats respond to catnip. The reaction to catnip is hereditary, and about 30% to 50% of cats lack the gene that elicits a response. Kittens and senior cats are also less likely to respond to catnip.
5. Safety: While the effects of catnip are harmless and temporary, ensure that your cat has a safe environment to enjoy their catnip experience. Some cats can become overly excited or aggressive, so it's a good idea to supervise them, especially if there are other pets around.
6. Quantity: More isn't necessarily better. A small pinch of dried catnip or a spritz of catnip spray is usually enough to induce a reaction.
7. Health Benefits: In addition to the euphoric effects, catnip can serve as a form of environmental enrichment, helping to reduce stress and prevent behavior problems. Some cats may also chew on catnip, which can aid in the removal of dental plaque.
8. Alternative Plants: If your cat doesn't respond to catnip, you might try related plants like silver vine, Tatarian honeysuckle, or valerian root, which can have similar effects on some cats.

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In conclusion, while catnip is safe for cats, moderation is key. Providing catnip as an occasional treat can keep the experience fresh and enjoyable for your feline companion.

​Final Thoughts

Catnip is a herb that comes from the Nepeta cataria plant. It comes in many forms, including dried, fresh, sprays, or inside toys.

Cats love to eat, roll around in, and play with catnip, and it has an effect on them that causes them to go a bit wild. Or, in some cases, calm down their stress and anxiety. 

One of the best things about catnip is the fact that it does not expire! So, you can keep it for long periods of time and won’t have to worry about it going off.

​However, it is best used fresh because it can lose its potency over time, which means it is less effective for cats. It is a good idea to keep your catnip in a tightly sealed container to prolong its shelf life.