What makes cats high? - briefly
Cats can become "high" due to exposure to certain substances or conditions that mimic the effects of drugs in humans. Common triggers include catnip, silver vine, and honeysuckle, which contain nepetalactone and other compounds that act on their olfactory receptors, leading to euphoria and altered behavior.
What makes cats high? - in detail
Cats, like humans, can experience feelings of euphoria or being "high" due to various factors. The most common triggers for this state in felines are related to their environment, behavior, and biology.
One significant factor is the presence of certain plants that contain nepetalactone, an essential oil found in catnip (Nepeta cataria). When cats come into contact with this substance, it binds to receptors in their nose, triggering a response in their brain that leads to a state of heightened excitement and pleasure. This reaction is not universal among all cats; approximately 50-65% of felines are sensitive to nepetalactone.
Another plant known for its effects on cats is silver vine (Actinidia polygama). Similar to catnip, silver vine contains actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, which also stimulate the same receptors in a cat's nose, leading to similar euphoric responses.
In addition to these plants, cats can exhibit high-like behaviors due to pheromones, chemical signals that they use for communication. Synthetic pheromone diffusers and sprays are available, designed to mimic the natural pheromones released by cats when they mark their territory or show affection towards other cats or humans. These products can induce a sense of calmness and contentment in felines, similar to being "high."
Furthermore, certain behaviors and activities can evoke feelings of pleasure and euphoria in cats. Hunting and playing are natural instincts for felines, and the act of stalking, pouncing, and catching prey or toys releases endorphins in their brain, creating a sense of happiness and satisfaction.
Moreover, the biology of cats plays a crucial role in their ability to experience euphoria. The feline brain is wired to respond positively to stimuli that mimic natural behaviors and sensations. For instance, grooming and being petted by humans can activate specific neural pathways, inducing a state of relaxation and pleasure.
In conclusion, cats can experience feelings of euphoria or being "high" due to various factors, including exposure to specific plants like catnip and silver vine, the presence of synthetic pheromones, engaging in natural behaviors such as hunting and playing, and receiving tactile stimulation through grooming and petting. Understanding these triggers can help cat owners create a more enriching environment for their feline companions.