Why Do Cats Like Catnip?

Catnip is a member of the mint family. Scientists are not sure how or why catnip affects cats the way it does, but they have identified the part of the plant that causes the euphoric reaction. The substance is a non-poisonous chemical called nepetalactone, an aromatic oil found in the stem and leaves of the plant. It is believed that it is the smell of the leaves rather than the taste that causes cats to react.

Reactions from cats will vary based on the strength and quality of the product, and...