15 Cats With a Serious ‘Nip Problem

So, what the heck is catnip anyway, and why does it make our feline friends lose their minds so thoroughly? Is it dangerous? Is it fun? Here’s the scoop from Scientific American:

Nepetalactone, one of catnip’s volatile oils, enters the cat’s nasal tissue, where it is believed to bind to protein receptors that stimulate sensory neurons. These cells, in turn, provoke a response in neurons in the olfactory bulb, which project to several brain regions including the amygdala (two neuronal clusters* in the midbrain that mediate emotional responses to stimuli) and the hypothalamus, the brain’s “master gland” that plays a role in regulating everything from hunger to emotions.

It goes on to say that this chemical behaves similarly to a pheromone. In other words, it makes the cat…erm…frisky, in a lot of ways.

And that goes a long way to explaining why cats are so hilarious when they’re on the nip. Like these ones from Instagram!

15. Lady Flufferton

When you ain’t got fluff but you got the stuff.

 

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A post shared by Fluff | Sphynx Mischief-Maker (@lady_flufferton)

14. The spread

Maximum chill activated.

 

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A post shared by Ruby Seddon (@chocolateragdoll_luda)

13. What’s up?

This is me on a Sunday morning.

 

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A post shared by Only Cats (@catto_holics)

12. The talk

You never know what they may be going through.

 

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A post shared by Kera Super (@funkyrainbowkitty)

11. Look at the stars

They’re so intense, so beautiful.

 

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A post shared by Mitzy & Tinker (@mitzy_n_tink)

10. The doobie kitty

Don’t be a narc, leave him alone.

 

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A post shared by Pass the catnip (@catnip_salad)

9. The snuggle is real

I love you, drugs. You’re my best friend.

 

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A post shared by Emi & Sasha (@littlebeanandbigbean)

8. Absolute overload

That oughta do it for today.

 

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A post shared by Tango (@tango_the_angel_cat)

7. Fur is flying

If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen.

 

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A post shared by Elaine Geddes (@geddes.elaine)

6. Bezz

Like I’ve always said, Bezz is best.

 

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A post shared by Bezz McGoey (@bezzy_boo_roo_x_)

5. From the shadows

“YOU GOT ANYMORE?!”

 

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A post shared by Rocky, Whisper, Shadow (@tinydreamercats)

4. Banana for scale

I WILL DESTROY YOU, YELLOW FRUIT MONSTER!

 

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A post shared by Nosey Rosey (@primrosethefloof)

3. Cat as crashed

Please restart.

 

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A post shared by Important cat images (@important.cats)

2. Together forever

Let the fight begin.

 

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A post shared by Harvey & Holly (@harveyandhollybsst)

1. The attack

Only one can win this battle.

 

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A post shared by Zackytheragdoll (@zackytheragdoll)

So enjoy the nip, kitties of the world. It’s very entertaining for all of us.

What’s your cat like?

Tell us about them in the comments.