Why does valerian excite cats? - briefly
Valerian contains actinidine, a compound that mimics the scent of cat pheromones. This stimulates cats' natural hunting instincts, causing excitement and playful behavior.
Why does valerian excite cats? - in detail
Valerian, a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, is known for its sedative effects on humans and many other animals. However, cats exhibit an unusual response to this plant: instead of becoming calm, they often become excited or even aggressive. This intriguing behavior can be attributed to several factors rooted in the unique biology and sensory perception of felines.
Firstly, valerian contains actinidine, a compound that is structurally similar to certain pheromones found in cat urine. Pheromones are chemical signals used by animals to communicate various messages, including territorial marking and reproductive status. When cats detect actinidine in valerian, their olfactory system may interpret it as a sign of another cat's presence or territory, triggering an instinctual response. This response can manifest as excitement, aggression, or increased activity levels, as the cat prepares to defend its territory or investigate the perceived intrusion.
Additionally, valerian contains several volatile compounds, such as isovaleric acid and valerenic acid, which contribute to its distinct odor. These compounds are also present in small amounts in cat urine and can serve as olfactory cues for felines. Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, with over 200 million scent receptors compared to the approximately 5 million found in humans. This heightened sensitivity allows cats to detect subtle changes in their environment, including the presence of other animals or potential threats. When exposed to valerian, cats may perceive these compounds as a signal that another cat has marked its territory, prompting a behavioral response aimed at asserting dominance or investigating the source of the scent.
Moreover, valerian's stimulating effect on cats can be attributed to their unique evolutionary history and predatory nature. As obligate carnivores, cats have evolved to be highly sensitive to various olfactory cues that could indicate the presence of prey or potential mates. In the wild, detecting subtle scents can mean the difference between life and death, as it allows cats to track their prey or avoid predators. The actinidine and volatile compounds in valerian may mimic these natural olfactory signals, triggering an instinctual response that prepares the cat for action.
In summary, valerian's ability to excite cats can be attributed to the presence of actinidine and other volatile compounds that mimic feline pheromones or olfactory cues. These compounds activate the cat's highly developed sense of smell, triggering an instinctual response rooted in their evolutionary history as predators and territorial animals. Understanding this phenomenon not only provides insights into the complex world of feline behavior but also highlights the importance of olfactory communication in the animal kingdom.