Rolling in Catnip

An herb in the mint family, catnip influences cats that are genetically predisposed to the effects of its essential oil. Studies indicate that up to one-third of felines are unaffected by catnip. Nepetalactone, the active chemical compound in catnip, creates the familiar "intoxicated" reaction. The flehmen response (when a cat "sneers," or pulls back its upper lip, while sniffing) forces the scent through the vomeronasal, or Jacobson's organ, located within the palate. From there, it travels to the base of the brain. Within the brain, the compound stimulates certain receptors and hormones. Rolling in catnip might demonstrate an instinctual behavior designed to release more of the oil. (Courtesy of Cat Fancy, September 2007)