Catnip toys, as the name indicates, are toys that contain catnip and are designed for cats. However, some dog owners want to know if it is safe to give catnip toys to your dog. Read on to learn all about catnip, the effects on dogs and if the toys are suitable.
What Is Catnip?
Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is an herb that belongs to the same family as mint leaves. The chemical compound called nepetalactone is present in the leaves and it attract cats (usually). Put simply, catnip is a substance that makes cats go crazy! We’ve all seen those videos on the Internet.
Effects Of Catnip On Dogs
While catnip, as the name suggests, is generally popular among cats, it also has an effect on dogs to a certain extent. However, you will not find the same levels of excitement from dogs as observed in cats when catnip is involved. Catnip is harmless for dogs, provided it is the right dosage. Interestingly, catnip has the opposite effect on dogs as it does to cats. It acts as a mild sedative that calms dogs down.
Benefits Of Catnip For Dogs
Most people do not know that catnip has a lot of benefits for dogs as well. However, you must consult with your vet to see how much is safe for your dog and when you can administer it. Also, do not use catnip too often.
- Promotes relaxation. If your dog is stressed, having trouble sleeping or feeling nervous about leaving the house, then catnip is a good organic remedy that can help address these problems. It might take around half an hour for the herb to act, after which, it will produce a calming effect in your dog.
- Catnip is used as a remedy for digestion problems in humans and it works well for dogs as well. If you notice that your dog is having gas or indigestion problems, you can give him a little catnip. It is a great solution for flatulence.
- Catnip also helps to ease menstruation and related processes with female dogs as it stimulates blood circulation near the pelvic area. However, it is crucial to remember that it must not be given to pregnant dogs.
- Another surprising fact about catnip is that it is a great insect repellent. In fact, it is more effective than regular repellents. An oil that is prepared from catnip can be sprayed on your dog’s body to protect him from pests. Consult your vet before trying this as it might not be suitable for every dog. The oil also has diuretic properties and helps detoxification.
- Catnip contains thymol, which has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It acts as a natural ointment to boost the healing of wounds or infections.
- While most dogs enjoy long rides with the air hitting their face, some dogs might experience motion sickness. If you want to avoid having to stop in the middle of a highway to clean dog puke, it is best to give your dog a little catnip half an hour before the journey.
- Catnip is also beneficial for respiratory issues, muscle spasms, and diarrhea.
Catnip Toys
Catnip toys are stuffed with dried catnip and are designed with small bells or trinkets to make them more appealing to cats; these toys are specially crafted for cats and as such, are small in size. In general, they are toys infused with catnip.
Catnip Toys and Dogs
It is generally not advisable for dogs to be given catnip toys. This is mainly because catnip toys are specially designed for cats and they are small in size. For cats, these toys are big and cannot fit in their mouths. However, they are very small for dogs. And dogs, as you know, love biting and ripping apart things so there is a danger of your dog possibly ingesting a catnip toy. These toys can also get stuck in the throat or gastrointestinal tract, which could lead to choking or require surgery. If it goes unnoticed, then it might prove to be deadly for your dog.
Another concern is that dogs can tear off the covering and ingest the entire dose of catnip. Overdosing on catnip can cause severe digestive problems and other harmful reactions. There is the chance your dog could become heavily sedated and inactive.
Though there have been no reports of death due to catnip toys, there have been several serious cases in which surgery was required. It is better to avoid such instances by simply not giving your dog catnip toys.
However, there are a few catnip toys that are suitable for dogs. However, these are not easily accessible. You can also opt for bigger-sized toys, if they are available, so that your dog can play without the risk of harm.
Safety Measures Before Giving Catnip To Your Dog
Make sure you first consult with your vet before you administer catnip to your dog. Even if it is as a toy, seek consultation. You can rub catnip on your dog’s toys; for example, rub it on a ball and let your dog lick it up. This way, you won’t have to worry about any accidental ingestions.
A Canine Alternative!
Just like cats deriving a ‘high’ from catnip, canines also have their own herb – anise or aniseed gives dogs a similarly pleasurable experience as cats get from catnip. However, it is crucial for you to find out from your vet if your dog can handle it and if it is safe.
Also, the effects of anise on your dog depends on what manufactured form you get. It is best to buy anise-flavored dog toys or treats from your pet store instead of trying to give him regular anise.
Conclusion
Remember that although catnip is not harmful to dogs and might actually prove beneficial if used in problematic situations, catnip toys may not be a good option. Also, keep in mind that the purpose of administering catnip to your dog is as a medical remedy and not for play or pleasure purposes. So it is best to keep those catnip toys away from your canine.
See Also My Other Related Posts:
Don't Forget To Make Your Dachshund Happy And Check Out Dachshund Favorite Products!
In my article, I reveal all the information about Dachshund’s Favorite Food. The best dachshund food available on the market: Most Nutritious And Delicious Dachshund Food Products Available On The Market.
If you want to learn what are the latest trends in Dachshund fashion check my article: Dachshund’s Fashion. How to choose the dachshund clothes that just simply fit: Finding the Right Clothes for Your Dachshund.
If you want to prepare your beloved Dachshund for cold weather check out my article: Jackets And Outdoor Gears For Dachshund.
To go out with your dachshund, but not choke him to death check out my article about harnesses: Finding The Best Harness for Dachshund When you are ready to get one check the options available on the market Choosing The Right Harness For Your Dachshund.
