Is Catnip Bad for Dogs?

While catnip is a favorite among cats, you might wonder if this herb will have the same psychoactive effects on dogs. 

Maybe you have cats and dogs in your home, and you’re concerned about what might happen if your pup chows down on a catnip-loaded cat toy.  

So, is catnip bad for dogs to eat? Thankfully, the answer is no. Catnip isn’t harmful or toxic to dogs — provided they’re only given a small amount. Dogs are also immune to catnip’s famous psychoactive properties.

What is catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is an herb in the mint family that’s native to Europe and Asia but is now found worldwide. It contains nepetalactone, an essential oil that makes cats get high. For this reason, most kitties find catnip irresistible, and catnip is a popular addition to cat toys.

Usually, when cats are exposed to catnip, they become giddy and exhibit frenzied behaviors, such as rolling around, rubbing against surfaces, purring, drooling, and even zooming around in excitement. 

To humans and dogs, it’s just an ordinary herb. 

What happens if dogs eat catnip?

Catnip doesn’t affect dogs in the same way it does cats. Dogs won’t experience any of the euphoric or hyperactive responses caused by nepetalactone. On the contrary, some dogs may even become calm after ingesting catnip, the exact opposite of cats. 

That said, while ingesting a little catnip won’t significantly affect your pup, they may feel ill if they eat too much, as plant material can cause digestive issues in dogs. 

So, as with all “non-dog foods,” the golden rule is that you should share it in moderation. 

Are there benefits to giving your dog catnip?

Not only is catnip safe for dogs, but in small amounts, it may even be beneficial. Catnip contains nutrients that can potentially help with sleep and stress. It’s even a natural insect repellent. 

Let’s look at some of the potential benefits of catnip for your pup:

Nutritional benefits of catnip for dogs

This herb contains the following nutrients: 

• Antioxidants
• Flavonoids
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Minerals (including iron, potassium, selenium, and more)
• Essential oils

All of these can benefit your pup’s health and provide them with additional nutrients in addition to their well-balanced dog food. Of course, your dog can get these same nutrients from other foods.

Repels insects

Catnip deters insects like fleas, ants, mosquitoes, and beetles. One study found that nepetalactone-filled catnip oil was even more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. 

Still, we don’t recommend using catnip as an alternative to tick and flea medications and treatments. Before using a natural remedy like catnip to stop these pesky insects from bothering your pets, talk to your veterinarian. 

Effects on sleep and anxiety

If your dog struggles with mild anxiety and restlessness, catnip may help. It has mild sedative properties that can potentially help pooches relax if they have trouble sleeping or during stressful situations such as thunderstorms. 

While catnip can benefit dogs, it should always be given in small amounts. If you’re unsure if it’s right for your dog, contact your veterinarian before adding it to your dog’s diet. 

While catnip is non-toxic to dogs, your veterinarian may recommend using melatonin for dogs or ginger instead.

Can dogs get high?

Many pet owners enjoy sharing catnip with their cats. Wild cats also love catnip, and it’s perfectly safe to share this herb with your kitty in moderation. In virtually all other circumstances, you should never intentionally get your pet high or stoned.

Dogs can get high from accidental exposure to substances like marijuana and alcohol, but this can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

While CBD is sometimes used in veterinary medicine, THC is always toxic to our pooches. Even small amounts can lead to marijuana toxicity in dogs and cause symptoms such as: 

• Low heart rate
• Dribbling of urine
• Excessive drooling
• Stumbling
• Lethargy and excessive sedation
• Sensitivity to sound and light

If you suspect that your pup has marijuana toxicity, seek emergency veterinary help immediately.  

Alcohol is also very hazardous to dogs and can cause confusion, slow breathing, and, in severe cases, even a coma or death. 

The Bottom line: Is catnip bad for dogs?

Catnip isn’t harmful to dogs unless ingested in large amounts. It may even have some beneficial properties thanks to nutrients like vitamins C and E. However, every dog reacts differently, so monitor your pup closely if they’ve gotten into some catnip accidentally.

Want to ensure your pup stays as healthy and happy as possible? Of course, you do, but you can’t foresee every little germ or mishap. A Pumpkin Dog Insurance plan can help cover the cost of eligible vet bills for accidents and illnesses in the future. That way, you can say yes to the best care.

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