What is valerian for cats
Valerian root acts as a potent catnip alternative for cats, triggering a sedative-like response in one-third of felines who ignore traditional catnip.
Valerian root acts as a potent catnip alternative, triggering a sedative-like response in roughly one-third of domestic cats who do not react to traditional catnip. The plant contains attractant semiochemicals that affect feline behaviour in a way similar to nepetalactone, though the specific mechanism differs slightly in its calming rather than purely stimulating effect.
It works on cats that ignore catnip
Valerian root is one of only three known alternatives for the estimated one-third of domesticated or medium-sized cats who show no reaction to catnip. While many owners assume their pet is immune to feline attractants, valerian often succeeds where nepetalactone fails. The roots and leaves contain specific volatile oils that interact with the cat's olfactory system, eliciting a response that can range from mild interest to intense rolling and rubbing.
The chemical mechanism is different from catnip
The active compounds in valerian are distinct from those in catnip, which is why the response varies between species and individuals. The root contains a yellowish-green to brownish-yellow oil, with the chief constituent varying in content from 0.5 to 2.0% depending on the soil conditions. A dry, stony soil yields a root richer in this oil than moist, fertile soil. The plant produces a catnip-like response, but the specific alkaloids and sesquiterpenes, such as valerenic acid, interact with the feline nervous system to produce a unique effect.
It is a sedative, not just a stimulant
Unlike catnip, which often induces a period of high-energy playfulness, valerian is known for its sedative and anxiolytic effects. In humans, crude extracts of the root are used to promote sleep and relieve mild nervous tension, and the same compounds that calm a human can have a similar, albeit less predictable, effect on a cat. The plant is sometimes called "cat's love" precisely because of this catnip-like effect, but the outcome is often a more relaxed state of mind rather than a frenzy of activity.
It is not harmless for every animal
While valerian is attractive to cats, it is also a known attractant for other species, including rats and members of the Canidae family, which is why it is sometimes used in traps. The plant contains compounds that produce central nervous system depression, which means it should not be used with other depressants like alcohol or sedatives in humans. In cats, the reaction is generally safe, but the concentration of active ingredients can vary significantly between batches because the plant is an unregulated product.
Origin and botanical background
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an herbaceous perennial flowering plant native to Europe and southwestern Asia. It grows up to 1.5 m tall, with pale pink or white flowers that are sweetly scented. The name is derived from the Latin verb valere, meaning to be strong or healthy, and it has been used in traditional medicine since the times of ancient Greece and Rome. Despite its reputation as a sedative, the exact efficacy for humans remains debated, with some meta-analyses finding insufficient evidence for its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders.
How to use it safely
Because the concentration of active compounds cannot be easily determined in unregulated preparations, caution is advised when introducing valerian to a pet. The plant is considered potentially invasive in some locations, such as Connecticut and New Brunswick, highlighting its potency. For cats, the root is typically dried and sold in sachets or toys, allowing the animal to sniff or chew on it. If a cat shows signs of excessive lethargy or distress, the exposure should be stopped immediately.
Why it is not a universal solution
Not every cat will react to valerian, just as not every cat reacts to catnip. The genetic basis for this sensitivity is not fully understood, but it is a well-documented phenomenon that a significant portion of the feline population is immune to certain attractants. Valerian fills a gap for those owners who have a cat that simply does not care for the standard garden variety, offering a different chemical profile that can engage the feline sense of smell and trigger a behavioural response.
In summary, valerian root is a reliable alternative for the one-third of cats that ignore catnip, offering a sedative-like attraction derived from its unique oil content. While it shares the ability to alter feline behaviour, it is distinct in its chemical composition and its historical use as a calming agent in human medicine.