What is Silvervine?

Silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a natural, climbing vine native to the mountainous regions of Japan and China, celebrated for its stimulating and mood-boosting effects in cats. Like catnip, Silvervine contains natural compounds that trigger positive behavioral responses — but it’s often even more effective, especially for cats that don’t react to catnip.

How It Works

Silvervine contains two active compounds: actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide. When a cat smells or chews Silvervine, these compounds interact with olfactory receptors in the nose, sending signals to areas of the brain that influence mood, play, and social behavior.

Typical Silvervine responses:

• Playful rolling, head rubbing, and body flopping

• Licking, chewing, and bunny kicking

• Energetic bursts of activity or affectionate behavior

• Calm, content cuddling once the effects fade

Silvervine’s effects are typically more intense and longer-lasting than catnip, lasting around 5 to 30 minutes depending on the cat.

What is Valerian Root?

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis) is a natural herb native to Europe and Asia, well-known in herbal medicine for its calming properties in humans — but it has surprising, playful effects on many cats too! Valerian Root contains natural compounds that can trigger euphoric, energetic, and cuddly behaviors in cats, making it a fantastic alternative to catnip.

How it works:

The primary active compounds in Valerian Root are valerenic acid and actinidine. When a cat smells or interacts with Valerian Root, these compounds stimulate olfactory receptors, sending signals to the brain areas responsible for emotions and social behaviors — similar to catnip and silvervine, but often with a unique twist.

Typical Valerian Root responses:

• Rolling, rubbing, playful pouncing

• Drooling, head rubbing, and body flopping

• Licking, bunny kicking, or chewing

• Sleepy, cuddly calmness as the effects wear off

Valerian Root’s effects can be more sedative or snuggly compared to other herbs, making it perfect for cuddly or naturally high-strung cats.

Parsley and Dill:

While not as stimulating as catnip or silvervine, these fragrant herbs add variety to your cat’s environment, offering mild enrichment, digestive support, and a connection to nature.

Ideal for curiouscats who enjoy exploring different textures and scents.

How It Works

Unlike euphoric herbs like catnip, parsley and dill have calmer, milder effects on cats. They’re often used in small quantities for:

What Is Cat Grass?

Cat Grass is a soft, tender blend of grasses like wheatgrass, barley, oat, and rye, grown specifically for cats. It’s not the same as outdoor lawn grass — it’s clean, safe, and packed with gentle nutrients. Many cats instinctively nibble on greens, and cat grass provides a safe, indoor-friendly way to satisfy that natural urge.

How It Works:

While cat grass isn’t intoxicating like catnip or silvervine, it offers several natural benefits:

Many cats will instinctively chew on cat grass, while others may enjoy sniffing and batting at its soft blades.

References

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   8. Freepik. (n.d.). Green branch of parsley and dill on white isolated background [Photograph]. Freepik. Retrieved May 9, 2025, from https://www.freepik.com/premium-photo/green-branch-parsley-dill-white-isolated-background_42827277.htm

   9. Gardenia.net. (n.d.). Actinidia polygama (Silver vine). Gardenia. Retrieved May 9, 2025, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/actinidia-polygama

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   15. Veterinary Centers of America (VCA). (2020). Is it safe for cats to eat grass? https://vcahospitals.com