Catnip is like magic for many cats; just a whiff can send them into a playful frenzy, while others melt into a happy, relaxed puddle. But with so many options available—fresh leaves, dried herbs, or easy-to-use sprays—how do you know which type of catnip is right for your pusa?

In this quick guide, we’ll break down the different forms of catnip, what makes each one special, and how to choose the best option for your Muning’s personality and play style.

Fresh Catnip: Nature’s Purest Form

Fresh catnip is exactly what it sounds like: mints usually grown in pots or gardens then freshly picked for felines. It's the most natural form of catnip and is the most potent due to the herb retaining its essential oils.

“The fresh leaves of this herb contain higher levels of the volatile oil nepetalactone, which is the compound responsible for triggering the unique reactions in cats,” said Kingsdale Animal Hospital.

While fresh catnip is not typically found in Philippine pet stores, the good news is that you can buy catnip seeds from Shopee and grow the mint yourself.

"Offer a small amount of fresh leaves to your cat by placing them on the floor or in a toy,” Colleen Lambo, DVM, veterinarian with The Vets, suggested in an interview with Martha Stewart.

We recommend fresh catnip for cats who love to chew or rub against real plants, as well as for owners who enjoy gardening and want their potted catnip to double as home décor (just keep it out of reach when not in use).

Dried Catnip: A Versatile Classic

Dried catnip is the most common and widely available type, the ones you would usually find in pet stores. It’s made by harvesting and dehydrating the catnip plant’s leaves and flowers. This process makes catnip easier to store and transport, thereby making it more accessible to fur parents. The downside is that the herb loses some of its potency.

“Dried catnip, while still effective, often loses some of this oil during the drying and storage process,” said Kingsdale Animal Hospital.

Its advantages include:

• A long shelf life. When properly stored, dried catnip can last several months.
• It’s compatible with toys. You can use it with toys designed for use with catnip, or if you’re on a budget, just take a sock or pouch and fill it with the treat.

“This is the classic form you can sprinkle on your cat’s favorite toys, scratching posts, or bedding. It’s easy to store and packs quite a punch when it comes to keeping your kitty engaged,” said Sky Canyon Animal Hospital. 

They added, “Pro tip: Start with a small pinch—just a little can go a long way!”

Dried catnip is perfect for Filipino owners without a green thumb, or those with more than one cat to entertain.

Catnip Spray: Mess-Free and Convenient

Catnip spray is made by distilling the oils from the catnip plant into a liquid form. It’s an easy, mess-free option that doesn’t leave any loose herbs for your kuting to scatter around the house. 

In addition, catnip spray is an excellent training tool. "It can be sprayed onto their bed or favorite resting place," Carly Fox, DVM, senior veterinarian at Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, told Martha Stewart. "It can also be used to help cats acclimate to new pieces of furniture to prevent destructive behavior."

While not as potent as freshly picked catnip, spray forms can still be effective, especially in high-concentration formulas. We recommend introducing the spray gradually so your pusa won’t feel overwhelmed.

This type of catnip is ideal for owners who prefer to keep their floors free of loose leaves.

Which Catnip Type Should You Buy?

Each form of catnip has its own strengths, and the best choice depends on your cat’s personality and your routine. Some cats love fresh leaves, while others go crazy for dried blends or respond best to a quick spray.

FAQs About Catnip Types

Is fresh catnip better than dried?

Not necessarily. While fresh catnip has a stronger scent, dried catnip is more convenient and longer-lasting.

How long does dried catnip stay potent?

About six months if stored in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Can I grow catnip indoors in the Philippines?

Yes! Catnip can grow in pots with sunlight and regular watering. (Watch out for our upcoming guide!)

Can I use catnip daily?

Yes, but cats can build temporary tolerance. Give them a day or two off to keep it exciting.

Is catnip the same as cat grass?

The two are often mistaken for each other, but they’re actually different. Catnip is a type of mint that induces euphoria in felines, while cat grass is simply grass that adds nutrition to Muning’s diet.

Is catnip safe?

Yes, we talk about all that (and more!) in our comprehensive guide, What is Catnip?