Can Dogs Have Catnip?

Cat lovers are well aware of how much cats enjoy catnip, but what about dogs? It’s a typical query in homes where dogs and cats live together. People frequently enquire as to whether it’s okay for their dogs to be near this plant.

Dogs respond to catnip differently than cats, despite the fact that cats are known to find it stimulating. Knowing how catnip affects dogs can assist you in making decisions regarding their well-being and safety.

This article will discuss whether or not dogs can consume catnip, how it affects them, and whether there are any advantages or disadvantages.

Can Dogs Eat Catnip?

Like cat grass, the answer to this question is unambiguous: dogs may indeed eat catnip. Neither humans nor dogs are poisoned by this plant. For example, you can safely make tea with catnip.

Is Catnip Harmful to Dogs?

Give catnip to dogs in moderation; there are no hazards or adverse effects from this herb. On the other hand, consuming a lot of catnip might upset your pet’s stomach. However, a dog is not likely to consume a significant amount of catnip by itself. Unlike cats, dogs typically find catnip to be unappealing. Dogs can safely play with toys that contain catnip, but it’s unlikely that they’ll be interested in them.

How Catnip Affects Dogs?

Dogs can benefit from the calming and stress-relieving properties of catnip, though results can vary widely.

Additional benefits of catnip for dogs include:

• mild antibacterial and antiviral effects;
• improved digestion;
• diuretic effect.

Fascinating fact: growing catnip indoors has advantages for people as well!

Why catnip calms dogs?

Nepetalactone is the compound responsible for both the stimulating and intoxicating effects of catnip on cats as well as its calming effect on dogs.

This ingredient in catnip gives it its antiviral, antibacterial, and insect-repelling qualities.

How to give catnip to dogs?

Using catnip for dogs is a very simple process. Crushed mint leaves are easy to combine with food. Using moist food works best because the mint adheres to it more effectively.

Before adding catnip leaves to food, chop them up if you grow it as a houseplant or in your garden.

Mint can also be found as a powder, dried, and crushed form. It can also be given to your dog as a treat in this form; just coat a piece of cheese in mint powder first.

Although dogs can safely be exposed to catnip, their reactions are not the same as those of cats. Catnip generally has little to no effect on dogs, despite the fact that it stimulates and excites most cats. It’s okay in moderation for some dogs to enjoy the smell or even eat it, but it won’t elicit the same playful response as cats. It’s wise to keep an eye out for any strange behavior in your dog following exposure, though.

Other ways to use catnip for dogs

Apply catnip tincture to food if you’re more comfortable with liquid forms. As with cats, it makes no sense to spray toys with a catnip-scented spray. Unlike cats, dogs do not react negatively to the smell of catnip.

How much catnip can a dog eat?

Give tiny doses of catnip to your dog. You can adhere to these dosage guidelines:

• 1/8 teaspoon for small dogs weighing up to 9 kg;
• 1/4 teaspoon for medium-sized dogs from 10 to 20 kg;
• 1/2 teaspoon for large dogs weighing 20 kg and more.

It won’t harm you if you inadvertently administer a little bit more or less, though. While a small dose will lessen the intended relaxing effect, a small overdose might make your dog momentarily more drowsy.

How Often to Give Your Dog Catnip?

Although it helps dogs sleep and has a calming effect, catnip is not meant to be used regularly as a food supplement.

Other actions are advised if your dog is excessively energetic or overly excited all the time. Excess energy is frequently the result of inadequate exercise. Longer walks or training are the best options in this situation.

Numerous things, such as loud noises, fuss, or disagreeable smells, can make dogs nervous or agitated.

In these cases, it is preferable to address the sources of discomfort directly rather than attempting to use sedatives to suppress the dog’s natural reaction.

What are the alternatives to catnip for calming dogs?

In stressful situations, try these tried-and-true DIY remedies instead of catnip:

These plants have a soothing influence as well.

If you’ve previously used catnip for dogs, please let us know in the comments if it works for your animals.

Although catnip is well known for its effects on cats, when used sparingly, it can also be beneficial for dogs. While the herb does not cause the same reaction in dogs as it does in cats, some dogs may even experience mild benefits like relaxation.

It is usually a good idea to start with small amounts of catnip and see how your dog reacts if you are thinking about giving them some. Since each dog is unique, some may not even express interest.

As usual, to make sure your dog is safe and healthy, speak with your veterinarian before adding any new herbs or medications to their regimen.

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