Though many of them share our homes, cats are still mysterious creatures. Why do they purr? Why do they knead? And why do they freak out when given catnip? Learn the answers to these and other urgent questions about the internet's most popular pet.
Key Facts In This Video
-
The proper name for catnip is Nepeta cataria, and it's part of the mint family. 00:32
-
While humans are various responses to drugs, all cats have predictable and consistent reactions to catnip. 01:11
-
Catnip can't affect humans as intensely as it affects cats because our brains and olfactory systems are structured differently. 02:14
Written by
Curiosity Staff
March 4, 2016
Wake up with the smartest email in your inbox.
Our Best Articles Daily
Read More from Curiosity
:quality(75)/curiosity-data.s3.amazonaws.com/images/content/thumbnail/standard/810ffe50-9075-44e2-a09e-ca154a6f5a10.png)
Here's Why Your Cat Sticks Its Butt In Your Face
:quality(75)/curiosity-data.s3.amazonaws.com/images/content/thumbnail/standard/eee8c08b-8281-48c2-9331-0292f01b46fb.png)
Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Cats?
Curiosity uses cookies to improve site performance, for analytics and for advertising. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.