Are Catnip and Catmint the Same?

Cat owners and cat lovers all over the world must have heard of catnip, the herb that drives felines wild. However, not many people know about catmint, another herb that is often confused with catnip. So, are catnip and catmint the same thing? Let's find out!

What is Catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is now considered an invasive species. Catnip contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which is responsible for the intense reaction that cats have when exposed to it.

A catnip plant

Cats are attracted to catnip because of the scent of nepetalactone. When they smell or ingest catnip, they may exhibit various behaviors such as rubbing their faces against it, rolling around on the ground, drooling, and even becoming more active and playful. Not all cats are affected by catnip, as sensitivity to this herb is believed to be hereditary, and kittens under six months old are generally immune to its effects.

What is Catmint?

Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) is another herb that belongs to the mint family and is closely related to catnip. It is also known by its common name, catnep, which can cause further confusion between the two herbs. Catmint is native to the Mediterranean region and has small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from spring to autumn. Like catnip, catmint also contains nepetalactone, although in smaller amounts.

Catmint flowers

While catmint is less potent than catnip, some cats still enjoy it and may exhibit similar behaviors. However, not all cats are attracted to catmint, and some may prefer catnip or other herbs such as valerian root or silver vine.

The Differences Between Catnip and Catmint

Despite their similarities, catnip and catmint have some notable differences:

• Scientific Name: Catnip's scientific name is Nepeta cataria, while catmint's scientific name is Nepeta mussinii.
• Growth Habit: Catnip grows taller than catmint and can reach up to three feet in height, while catmint only grows up to one foot tall.
• Potency: Catnip contains more nepetalactone than catmint, making it more potent and more attractive to cats.
• Flower Color: Catnip has white or pink flowers, while catmint has lavender-blue flowers.

In conclusion, while catnip and catmint are closely related herbs that both contain nepetalactone, they are not the same thing. Catnip is more potent and more attractive to cats, while catmint is less potent and preferred by some felines over others. So if you're looking to give your cat a treat, try both and see which one they prefer!

Nepeta cataria, Nepeta mussinii, herbs for cats, cat behavior, cat toys