As loving cat parents, we understand that a happy cat is a cat whose natural instincts are nurtured and whose days are filled with purpose and play. While many of us are familiar with the often hilarious effects of catnip, a staple in many cat households, there’s another natural option to add a little “spice” to your cat’s day: silvervine. This plant offers a unique experience for cats. It may even work for cats who are indifferent to catnip (yes, that does happen).In this post, I will share precisely what silvervine is, why it works so effectively to entertain our cats, and the many benefits it offers for both their physical and mental well-being. While I’m not saying you need to replace your cat’s go-to favorites (we still have catnip toys in our house), this could be the perfect option to add something new and exciting to their toy lineup!What Exactly is Silvervine?To truly appreciate the benefits of silvervine for your cat, it helps to understand what it is and what your cat experiences. Scientifically known as Actinidia polygama, silvervine actually belongs to the Kiwi family! The plant is indigenous to the rugged, mountainous regions of East Asia, where it thrives in the dense forests of Japan, China, Korea, and even parts of Siberia. It grows as a woody vine, often climbing and intertwining with other vegetation throughout its natural habitat.The silvervine plant features heart-shaped leaves and produces small, kiwi-like fruits that are called “silvervine fruits” or “matatabi fruits.” The plant has a long history of use in human folk remedies among certain Asian cultures. In some instances, the fruit is even consumed (although it’s not as common as the kiwi).When processing it for our cats to enjoy, there are four common forms:Dried Sticks: Resembling a small twig, this is arguably the most popular form. It’s perfect for chewing and batting around. Example: WoLover Silvervine Sticks for CatsPowder: Finely ground, this can be sprinkled on toys, scratching posts, or even a small amount on their food. Example: Raw Paws Silvervine PowderSprays: An extract is a great choice for refreshing existing toys or enticing your cat to show interest in new items, such as carriers or beds. Example: JAYU PET 100% Natural Silvervine Spray for CatsLeaves: Dried leaves or fruits are sometimes used in sachets or as loose playthings on their own. Example: Meowy Janes Whole Dried Silvervine Gall FruitWhile it’s similar to catnip in many ways, there's a notable chemical difference that allows it to appeal to an even larger number of cats.Why Cats Love SilvervineUnderstanding why silvervine holds such a powerful allure for our cats will require basic knowledge of feline neurobiology. Its spell is all thanks to specific chemical compounds within the plant and the response they trigger.The Active Compounds Catnip’s magic lies primarily in a compound called nepetalactone. Silvervine, however, involves a more complex cocktail of substances that trigger a response from our cats. The most significant and potent active compound in the plant is nepetalactol. But it also contains other compounds that are intriguing to your cat, like actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide.How it WorksWhen a cat inhales or ingests silvervine, these compounds (particularly nepetalactol) interact with your cat’s brain. This interaction triggers a natural release of endorphins, aka the body’s “feel-good” chemicals. This flood of endorphins is what leads to feelings of pleasure or euphoria. This is what causes them to act like they are “high” after being exposed to it.The most interesting aspect of this reaction is that silvervine appears to engage different receptors in the brain than catnip. For this reason, it may impact cats who show no response to catnip. Studies show that only approximately two-thirds of adult cats actively respond to catnip. Meanwhile, approximately 80% of cats react to silvervine. Your cat may be genetically predisposed to responding to one but not the other, or to both.Typical Cat Reactions to SilvervineWhen a cat encounters silvervine, their reactions can be pretty varied. For some, it will trigger feelings of excitement and playfulness. For others, it can help them chill and relax. But generally, most reactions fall into a predictable set of behaviors:Affection: Many cats will begin by rubbing their face and body against the silvervine, soon followed by enthusiastic rolling.Oral Stimulation: Licking and drooling are both common sensory responses to the plant.Playful Energy: A burst of playful energy often follows, including swatting, pouncing, kicking with hind legs, and sometimes an increase in vocalizations, such as chirps, trills, or purrs.Relaxation and Bliss: After the initial burst of activity, some cats enter a calm, relaxed, almost dream-like state. Eventually, they will return to normal energy levels once again.Each of these responses is entirely normal and a sign that your cat is enjoying the silvervine experience.The Benefits of Silvervine for Your Cat’s Well-Being Most cat parents who are interested in silvervine are focused on the fun experience for their cat, but it actually offers a list of benefits that contribute significantly to their health and well-being. From mental enrichment to physical activity, incorporating silvervine into your cat’s daily routine can boost their quality of life. Mental Enrichment and StimulationOne of the most significant benefits of introducing silvervine to your cat is its ability to provide much-needed mental enrichment and stimulation, helping you to keep them happy and entertained throughout the day (even when you’re at work). Cats, even those living indoors, have natural predatory instincts and a sharp intelligence that need to be worked and challenged. Imagine being stuck indoors 24/7, surrounded by the same things day in and day out, with nothing to do to entertain yourself. Silvervine, with its unique scent and effects, creates an exciting experience that can break up their day, introducing a fun and unpredictable element of play. The focused play it encourages promotes mental engagement, allowing your cat to flex their problem-solving skills and stay sharp. If you have a sensitive or anxious cat, silvervine is also known to have a euphoric and calming effect. Whether they are nervous about an upcoming vet visit, stressed about the move to a new home, or worried about the introduction of a new pet into their household, silvervine can help soothe agitated nerves and promote a more relaxed state of mind.
