Catnip is a herb from the mint family, officially known as Nepeta cataria. One of the key components of catnip is a type of chemical called a terpene, known as nepetalactone, which is found in the stem and leaves of the plant. When cats smell nepetalactone, it stimulates certain brain chemicals related to mood and happiness, which produces the “high” that is sometimes described as similar to either marijuana or LSD in humans. The response to catnip typically lasts for about 10 minutes before wearing off. Catnip comes in many different forms, including dried herbal format, fresh, infused in toys and chews, or as an extract (oil or spray) . If you buy dried catnip, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent it from losing its potency. Catnip is generally safe for cats and doesnt pose any major health risks.