By Lalinda De La Fuente

Kevin Duck, owner of DuckyWorld Products, which makes catnip toys, wants to make one thing clear about catnip. "For those who call it kitty marijuana, it ain't so."

In fact, catnip is nowhere close to a drug at all. Rather, catnip is a perennial herb from the mint family and when given to cats can cause a comedic reaction. Some cats rub it. Others roll over it. Some will even eat it and lick it. Some say that no matter the cat’s age, it brings out the kitten within.

The weed-like plant, which is not native to North America, originated in Europe, specifically in the Mediterranean region. Today, it is a widespread weed in the United States.

The active ingredient in catnip is Nepetalactone and the response to this chemical in cats is caused by its scent. It’s the cat that has special receptors for this chemical. It is thought that this chemical mimics a cat pheromone thus evoking the kitten-like reaction.

But the fact is that not all cats will react the same way to this minty herb. According to DuckyWorld, until kittens reach about 5-6 months of age, they may not be attracted to catnip for reasons of maturity. Likewise, older cats may often lose interest in the herb. Other cats, no matter their age, do not respond to catnip at all. According to Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, 10-30 percent of all cats fall into this category. Also according to Crosby, genetics play a role. Some cats are genetically “programmed” to respond to catnip while others are not. Big cats such as tigers have been known to react to catnip as well.

Nonetheless, Ducks says that their 100 percent organically grown catnip has been known to “bring out the kitten in the old puss!” Furthermore, Duck outlines the lesser known uses for the pungent herb. According to him, catnip is often used in sleepy time teas for humans to promote a good rest and has also been known to work on toothaches. Catnip is also good for the feline digestive system when given in small amounts.

So if you have a cat, go ahead and give them some catnip. It is safe for them, safe for you, and induces a reaction that is fun to watch. If you want to see your feline friends really go to town try DuckyWorld’s catnip toys. They are filled to the brim with 100 percent organically grown catnip and comes in fun shapes such as bananas, cigars and fish. Their products contain no cotton fillers and are made with chemical and pesticide free catnip. For more information on DuckyWorld catnip toys please visit www.duckyworld.com.