Catnip, Silvervine or Valerian Root- What’s The Difference?

Cats are known to have a strong attraction to certain plants. The most popular are catnip, silvervine, and valerian. These plants contain compounds that affect cats in various ways, triggering behaviors that are shown with pleasure or excitement. Here’s a brief overview of why cats like them:

Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Catnip is the most commonly known (and loved) cat herb. Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves, stems, and seeds of the plant. When cats come into contact with catnip, they might exhibit behaviors such as rolling, rubbing, purring, and increased playfulness. This reaction is thought to be due to nepetalactone’s interaction with receptors in a cat’s nasal tissue. It can create a euphoric or stimulating response in some cats but it is temporary.

Silvervine (Actinidia polygama): Silvervine, also known as matatabi, is another plant that can have a similar effect on cats as catnip. It contains compounds like actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, which can trigger playful and sometimes hyperactive behaviors in cats. Some cats that don’t respond to catnip might be more sensitive to silvervine. The response to silvervine varies from cat to cat.

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian root contains compounds like actinidine, similar to those found in silvervine. These compounds can also stimulate cats and trigger behaviors like rolling and rubbing. Valerian root’s effects on cats are not as well studied as catnip’s, but many cats enjoy it. As mentioned earlier, its effects can be quite different from its calming effects on humans.

It’s important to note that not all cats are affected by these plants, and individual sensitivities can vary. Some cats might show no interest in catnip, silvervine, or valerian at all. Additionally, the effects of these plants are temporary, and the excitement typically wears off after a short period. They may not show interest in them again right away, but they will come back to them after some time. This can vary by cat from a few hours to a few days.

Which one is right for my cat?

Choosing between catnip, silvervine, and valerian root for your cat will depend on your cat’s individual preferences and reactions. Cats have varying sensitivities to these substances, so it might take some trial and error to determine which one your cat responds to.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Catnip: Start with catnip since it’s the most commonly known option. Offer your cat a catnip toy or sprinkle dried catnip on a scratching post or play area. Observe your cat’s reaction. If your cat shows interest and exhibits playful behaviors, it’s likely that they are responsive to catnip.
2. Silvervine: If your cat doesn’t seem interested in catnip or you want to provide variety, you can try silvervine. Offer your cat silvervine/matatabi sticks, silvervine powder, or toys that contain silvervine. Some cats who aren’t affected by catnip might respond to silvervine, and some cats will respond to both (or all three).
3. Valerian Root: Valerian root is less commonly known and used with cats, however If you’re curious, you can try introducing valerian root in small amounts and observing your cat’s reaction. However, keep in mind that valerian root might stimulate your cat rather than calming them, which is its effect on humans.

When introducing any of these plants to your cat, or any other new plants, do so in moderation and observe how your cat reacts. Consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about using these plants for playtime with your cat, especially if your cat has underlying health issues or is on medication. Have fun experimenting and enjoying the silliness and joy that your cats antics bring to your life!