Eating
If your cat eats catnip, don’t panic.
But for most cats, catnip works best when they smell it, not when they eat a lot of it.
This UK guide explains what’s safe, what to avoid, and the easiest way to use catnip at home.
Quick answer
Yes, most cats can eat a tiny amount of catnip, but too much can upset the tummy.
For the “happy” catnip effect, smelling is usually better than eating. (cats.org.uk)
If your cat ate a lot and seems unwell, call your vet.
What is catnip?
Catnip is a plant that can make some cats feel playful, relaxed, or silly for a short time.
Not every cat reacts to it.
Is catnip safe for cats (UK)?
For most healthy cats, catnip is safe in small amounts.
The main problem is when a cat eats too much.
Too much catnip can cause:
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a sore tummy
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drooling
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being sick
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diarrhoea
So the safest rule is simple:
Let your cat smell catnip more than they eat it.
Can kittens have catnip?
Most kittens don’t react much until they are older.
It’s best to wait and keep it light.
Smell vs eat: what works better?
Catnip works through smell for many cats. That’s why:
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sprinkling a little on a toy can work fast
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rubbing it on a scratch spot can help training
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a small “scent area” can calm and focus your cat
Eating a lot does not make it better. It can just make the tummy worse.
How to use catnip safely (simple UK tips)
✅ Use a small amount
✅ Use it sometimes, not all day
✅ Keep catnip sealed and out of reach (cats can rip bags)
✅ Stop if your cat gets too wild or gets a sore tummy
A better way: catnip that stays “smell-only”
Some cats go straight to eating loose catnip.
A smarter setup is catnip that stays in a place your cat can sniff.
That’s why the CalmiCat Basket has hidden catnip pockets — your cat can smell it and enjoy it, without needing to eat a pile of it.
It also gives a scratch + rest spot, so your cat can:
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scratch the rope texture
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then curl up and settle
👉 Shop the CalmiCat Basket (with hidden catnip pockets)
https://www.calmicat.com/products/rope-cat-bed-calmi-cat-instinct-basket
Read next (internal links)
Mini FAQ (UK)
Can cats eat dried catnip?
A tiny bit is usually fine, but too much can upset the tummy. Smelling works better.
How often can I give catnip?
A few times a week is plenty for most cats.
What if my cat doesn’t react to catnip?
That’s normal. Some cats just don’t respond to it.
