Short answer: not reacting to catnip or matatabi simply means a cat genetically lacks the response receptor — it's not a health issue. For cats who do respond, it's safest to limit use to about twice a week to avoid overstimulation.
Does it mean something's wrong if my cat doesn't respond to catnip?
Not at all. The catnip response is determined genetically, and roughly a third of all cats are known to show no reaction. It's completely normal not to respond.
What's the difference between catnip and matatabi?
Catnip is a Western herb, while matatabi is a plant from the actinidia family that originated in Japan. Both trigger excitement and relaxation responses in cats, but the specific compounds and which cats respond can differ slightly.
Why does the weekly frequency need to be limited?
Overexposure can dull the response over time, and repeated bouts of overexcitement can become a stress factor — so limiting use to about once or twice a week is recommended.
What kind of behavior do responsive cats show?
Rubbing against or rolling around it, drooling, or excessive licking are common, and it's typical for the response to naturally settle down after 10–15 minutes.
Is it okay to give it to kittens?
The response often doesn't show up much before around 6 months of age, since the response receptor may not have developed yet — it's generally fine to try once your cat reaches adulthood.
