In a mildly psychedelic clip from the BBC Earth series Pets: Wild at Heart, the soothing voice of David Tennant explains the science behind the effect catnip has on cats and their intense response to it.
Just a few bites of this mind-altering plant and the cat falls under its alluring spell. Its volatile oils imitate sexual hormones and cause a potent reaction in its brain. 8 out of 10 adult cats find it totally seductive and the strange response is inherited.
When a cat eats catnip, it acts as a sedative, but when smelled, it causes the cat to go crazy. It is thought to mimic feline pheromones and trigger those receptors. Cats may react to the plant by rolling around, flipping over, and generally being hyperactive.
If catnip is ingested, some cats may foam at the mouth and grow drowsy or even extremely aggressive. They may also unleash guttural moans, an act interpreted as a response to hallucinations.