The Power of Catnip: Why It’s Nature’s Favourite Feline Treat
At Green & Wild’s, we’re all about keeping playtime pure, safe, and full of joy — and for cats, that often means one magical ingredient: catnip.
Whether it’s a quick burst of zoomies, a blissed-out cuddle session, or a roll on the rug, catnip brings out the playful side of your feline friend. But what is it, why do cats love it so much, and how do we use it in our 100% natural, eco-friendly cat toys?
Let’s dive into the wild world of catnip…..
What Is Catnip?
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb from the mint family, and it’s packed with a natural compound called nepetalactone. This is the secret behind the magic — it stimulates sensory neurons in cats, triggering playful behaviour followed by a wave of feline calm.
It’s worth noting that not all cats respond to catnip. Kittens under 3 - 6 months old usually don't respond to catnip, as they lack the necessary neural pathways. Their response can develop as they mature. Sensitivity to catnip is also hereditary, and about 70% of cats will experience its effects. For those that do, the results can be pure joy, from pouncing and rolling to blissful relaxation.
The Benefits of Catnip and Interactive Play for Cats
Catnip isn’t just a fun indulgence. It’s a natural, enriching tool for your cat’s wellbeing. Here’s how:
- 🧠 Mental stimulation – Catnip toys keep cats curious, active, and mentally sharp. Interactive playtime can help avoid boredom, lethargy, and mischief!
- 💪 Physical activity – The excitement it sparks encourages movement, helping your cat stay agile, toned, and healthy.
- 🧘 Stress relief – Stressed cats are more likely to develop behaviour problems. After the playful phase, catnip often leads to a calm, relaxed state — perfect for anxious or indoor cats.
- 🌿 Natural enrichment – Catnip satisfies instinctual behaviours in a healthy, non-destructive way.
- Interactive playtime importantly creates and strengthens a shared bond between you and your cat or kitten.
Where Our Catnip Comes From
At Green & Wild’s, we believe in using only the best, most ethical ingredients — and that includes our catnip.
Our catnip is organically grown in North America, where the ideal climate, clean soil, and sustainable growing practices result in strong, aromatic leaves full of natural potency. We only use the leaves and flowers, which contain the highest levels of nepetalactone — meaning your cat gets the best of the best in every toy.
Because our catnip is grown without pesticides or harmful chemicals, it’s not only safe for cats, but better for the planet too.
Why We Add It to Our Natural Cat Toys
Catnip is at the heart of our Cat Toy Collection — and for good reason. We believe natural enrichment should come without compromise.
Each of our catnip toys is made using eco-friendly materials like jute, natural wool felt, and the teaser toys include a bamboo stick; all sustainably sourced and free from artificial dyes or plastics. Inside, you’ll find nothing but high-quality catnip. No polyester stuffing or other hidden fillers — just pure fun, the natural way.
Our designs are durable, stimulating, and safe for chewing, batting, pouncing, and bunny-kicking! It’s everything your cat wants, and everything you’d expect from a brand that cares.
Some of Our Catnip-Infused Favourites:
Natalia Mouse – 🐭 Sweet and soft, make her twirl and dance to bring out your cat's playful nature.
Buzz Bee – 🐝 Their bright body and catnip filling make them perfect for playtime pounces.
Freddy Froglegs – 🐸 With his enticing legs, he’s as fun to fling as he is to dangle!
Piggie Sue – 🐷 She’ll get those paws batting and bunny kicking.
All of our catnip toys are available as standard toys or teaser toys, and are designed to be planet-friendly and pet-approved.
How to Use Catnip Toys
Want to get the most out of your catnip toys? Here are a few tips:
- Rotate toys weekly to keep things exciting.
- Use catnip as a positive reward during training or stressful moments like vet visits.
- Always supervise your cat during play and remove toys if they show signs of wear.
Catnip: Nature’s Way to Play
Catnip isn’t just a plant — it’s a way to support your cat’s natural instincts in a safe, sustainable way. At Green & Wild’s, we’re proud to craft toys that celebrate what cats love most: scent, texture, and play — with no plastic, no chemicals, and no compromise.
Whether your cat is a zoomie-prone kitten or a mellow senior, a little catnip goes a long way in making their day brighter.
Explore our full collection of eco-friendly cat toys, all made with love, natural materials, and the very best catnip we could find. Because playtime should be wild and wonderfully natural.
Find out more about our Eco Cat Toys with Catnip on Facebook and Instagram. It's also where you can meet our Cat Brand Ambassadors and see what they get up to with their G&W eco cat toys! Make sure to follow us for all the latest news.