Why do cats like catnip?: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Nov. 11, 2026

Photos

See All Images →

Topics

catnip Animal behaviour cat cats as pets 9 (Lives of) Famous Cat Lovers Why Have There Been So Many Bear Attacks in Japan in 2025 and 2026?Who was the first cat in space?Why Are Lilies Toxic to Cats?Is It True That Squirrels Forget Where They Bury About Half of Their Food?Why are sharks coming closer to shore?Why do cats like boxes?Why do they say cats have nine lives?Why do cats like scratching posts?