The Sweet Smell Of Honeysuckle: Do Cats Enjoy It?

Honeysuckle is a plant that has been found to have a similar effect on cats as catnip. While catnip only affects 50-70% of cats, honeysuckle is believed to be effective for 85% or more of cats, including those that are too young for catnip. The scent of honeysuckle is thought to be more appealing to cats with an inhibited sense of smell. The plant contains a chemical similar to the one found in catnip, which triggers a playful and pleasure-inducing response in cats.

Why do cats like honeysuckle?

Cats are known for their complex behaviours and responses to various stimuli, with catnip being the most famous substance that elicits a notable reaction. However, about one-third of cats do not respond to catnip, and this is believed to be genetic. Luckily, many cats that don't respond to catnip do show a similar response to honeysuckle.

Honeysuckle is believed to exert a calming effect on cats, which has led to its use in therapies for addressing conditions such as stress and anxiety in felines. It emits a strong aroma that might be more enticing to cats, possibly due to the presence of different chemical compounds that interact with a cat's senses in a unique way. The scent of honeysuckle has a similar effect on some cats as catnip, often making them calm and relaxed.

Honeysuckle, particularly the Lonicera tatarica species, has distinct effects on cats, such as eliciting playfulness similar to catnip. Cats exposed to certain types of this plant exhibit uninhibited playfulness. They may pounce, race, and roll as they engage with toys. Some cats may become more mellow, while others may exhibit slightly aggressive behaviours due to overstimulation.

The chemical, nepetalactone, which creates the response in cats to catnip, doesn't work until the cat is in puberty. However, this does not seem to be true of honeysuckle, which will often work in cats that are much younger than six months of age. When compared to catnip, honeysuckle's aroma is stronger, so it may be more appealing to cats with an inhibited sense of smell.

Honeysuckle has an effect on approximately 90% of all adult cats and is less effective on kittens. If your cat does not appear to be attracted to the scent, wetting the wood can revive the smell. To prolong the effect of the honeysuckle, you can sand or scrape the exposed inner wood surface.

What is the science behind cats' attraction to honeysuckle?

Cats are known for their complex behaviours and responses to various stimuli, with catnip being the most famous substance that elicits a notable reaction. However, about one-third of cats do not respond to catnip, and this is believed to be genetic. Luckily, many of these cats do show a similar response to honeysuckle.

Honeysuckle, particularly the Lonicera tatarica species, or Tartarian honeysuckle, has a strong aroma that might be more enticing to cats, possibly due to the presence of different chemical compounds that interact with a cat's senses in a unique way. This species of honeysuckle is the only one out of over 180 species of honeysuckle shrubs and vines that seems to have an effect on cats.

The chemical compound actinidine, found in honeysuckle, is similar to the nepetalactone found in catnip, which triggers a pheromone-based response in the cat's brain. This is why the scent of honeysuckle has a similar effect on some cats as catnip, often making them calm and relaxed.

The strong aroma of honeysuckle may be more appealing to cats with an inhibited sense of smell. It is also believed that, unlike catnip, which usually affects cats post-puberty, honeysuckle can appeal to cats at a younger age.

Cats possess a highly developed sense of smell, with their olfactory receptors tuned to detect specific volatile compounds. The essential oils in honeysuckle carry a distinctive scent that can stimulate a sensory reaction. This interaction primarily occurs through a mechanism of action involving the olfactory system, which significantly influences feline interaction with plants.

Research indicates that the response to scents like those produced by honeysuckle and catnip is a genetically inherited behaviour. The presence of a genetic variation influences whether a cat will experience the catnip response, with an estimated two-thirds of cats being responsive. The likelihood of a reaction to honeysuckle may also be tied to genetic predisposition, affecting a cat's individual personality and behavioural traits.

Is honeysuckle safe for cats?

Honeysuckle is generally safe for cats and can be a great alternative to catnip for those that don't respond to it. However, as with any new substance, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and introduce it to your cat gradually and responsibly.

The Lonicera tatarica species, also known as Tartarian honeysuckle, is the variety that affects cats. The woody parts of the plant are used in cat toys and sprays, while the berries, flowers, and leaves can be toxic and should be avoided. Ingesting large quantities of honeysuckle can cause digestive issues, and as with any plant or herb, there is a possibility of an allergic reaction.

If you're thinking of introducing honeysuckle to your cat, start with a small amount and monitor their reaction. Some common reactions to honeysuckle include rolling around, licking, biting, chasing invisible prey, and a dreamy or spaced-out mood. This reaction can last for up to two hours, after which your cat may experience a crash.

It's important to supervise your cat's interaction with honeysuckle, especially if they are playing with a toy containing the plant. If you notice any unusual symptoms or signs of poisoning, such as excessive salivation or vomiting, seek veterinary care immediately.

To prevent your cat from ingesting honeysuckle, keep the plant out of reach, especially indoors. Place it on high shelves or suspend it from the ceiling in hanging baskets. When your cat is outdoors, supervise them to prevent them from nibbling on any honeysuckle plants.

How do cats react to honeysuckle?

Cats are known for their complex behaviours and responses to various stimuli, with catnip being the most famous substance that elicits a notable reaction. However, an alternative to catnip that has been gaining attention is honeysuckle, particularly for its effectiveness in stimulating cats that show no interest in catnip.

Honeysuckle, especially the Lonicera tatarica species, has a strong fragrance that might be more enticing to cats, possibly due to the presence of different chemical compounds that interact with a cat's senses in a unique way. The plant's aroma and therapeutic properties are appealing and calming to cats, with some exhibiting increased affection or playful behaviour upon exposure to its scent.

Cats exposed to certain types of honeysuckle exhibit uninhibited playfulness. They may pounce, race, roll around, and engage enthusiastically with toys. Some cats may become more mellow, while others may exhibit slightly aggressive behaviours due to overstimulation. Reactions can include rolling around, meowing, purring or growling, drooling, kneading, chasing invisible prey, and a dreamy or spaced-out mood.

Honeysuckle is believed to have a calming effect on cats, which has led to its use in therapies for addressing conditions such as stress and anxiety in felines. It is also said to have a wider attraction for cats than catnip. However, responsible usage of honeysuckle is important due to potential risks, including allergies or digestive issues. While ingestion of small amounts is typically safe, consuming large quantities can lead to gastrointestinal distress.

Additionally, it is important to note that while honeysuckle wood is extremely hard, cats should not be allowed to chew on it to prevent choking hazards. Overall, honeysuckle provides an alternative to catnip and can be a safe and enjoyable way to stimulate and enrich your cat's environment.

What are some honeysuckle products for cats?

Honeysuckle is an alternative to catnip for cats, and there are a variety of honeysuckle products available on the market that are designed specifically for cats. These products are safe and appealing for feline play and can be used to stimulate cats that don't respond to catnip.

Honeysuckle Toys

Honeysuckle toys come in various forms, such as mice, body pillows, cushions, play mats, and kicker sticks. These toys are infused with the honeysuckle scent, which entices cats to play and exhibit uninhibited playfulness. The woody parts of the honeysuckle plant are typically used in these toys, as they are considered safe for cats.

Honeysuckle Sprays

Honeysuckle sprays can be applied to cat toys, bedding, or scratching posts to enhance their aroma and make them more attractive to cats. These sprays are a great way to provide olfactory enrichment for cats without the mess of loose herbs.

Honeysuckle Wood

Honeysuckle wood, such as slices, sticks, or posts, can be offered to cats as a safe alternative to catnip. Cats may exhibit behaviours similar to a catnip high when interacting with honeysuckle wood, such as cheek rubbing, hugging, and rolling over.

Honeysuckle Herb Blends

Herb blends containing honeysuckle, along with other cat-attracting herbs like silver vine, valerian root, lemongrass, and catnip, can be purchased. These blends can be used to stuff toys or simply offered to cats as a fragrant treat.

It is important to note that while honeysuckle is generally safe for cats, it is crucial to monitor them for any signs of allergic reactions or digestive issues. Additionally, ensure that any honeysuckle products are specifically designed for cats and purchased from trusted vendors.

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