Valerian and cats can make an excellent pair, so long as you use cat-approved dosages. Interestingly, some cats are stimulated by valerian and others are calmed by it.
In this way, it's similar to catnip. This article gives feline owners an overview of valerian root for cats, covering key things to know as well as helpful alternatives if you're not sure you want to give your cat valerian.
Let's get started.
Should You Use Valerian Root for Cats?
You can use valerian root either as an exciting supplement for your cat or as a calming agent. The trouble is, it depends on the cat so you have to find out for yourself.
Valerian is safe for cats so long as you use a cat-formulated product. Don't go picking valerian and sprinkling it into your cat's food bowl, as this could be harmful.
So, if you'd like your cat to perk up, valerian could be the right choice. If you'd like your cat to chill out, valerian could also be the right choice.
In either case, you can rest easy knowing that it's safe to use so long as your veterinarian gives you the go-ahead.
What is Cat Valerian?
Valeriana officinalis, or valerian, is a flowering perennial plant used for centuries by humans for it's calming effects. More specifically, the root is the aspect of the plant containing calming properties.
When you see a valerian product, it's most likely that it's a product containing valerian root.
What are The Benefits of Valerian for Cats?
The key benefit of valerian root is its ability to calm cats. As we noted, some cats respond the opposite way and get excited the way they would on catnip.
So, if your cat struggles with anxiety, valerian could be a natural option to support them without the use of harsher drugs.
What about Valerian Calms Cats?
The root contains a few compounds believed to be responsible for the calming effects that cats experience.
These compounds include:
Valerenic acid
Valepotriates
Isovaleric acid
These compounds are believed to calm the nervous system by increasing GABA levels, which can magnify calm feelings and mitigate distress.
What are The Side Effects of Too Much Valerian in Cats?
Excess valerian can cause cats to experience digestive upset or become drowsy or dizzy.
It's always best to discuss the use of valerian with your vet, especially if your cat has preexisting health issues or they're getting into senior age.
How Can I Give My Cat Valerian?
The best way to give your cat valerian is in a pet-formulated calming product. Avoid giving your cat any valerian product designed for human use, as these will likely be far too strong.
If you're confident in making a valerian solution like a tea or tincture yourself, just be sure to discuss it specifically with your veterinarian before giving it to your cat.
What are Alternatives to Valerian for Cats?
Since valerian can have two distinct effects on cats, we'll list two alternatives; one for calming and one for exciting.
Catnip for Exciting Cats
Catnip is an infamous product for cats, prompting some of the silliest and wildest experiences. Catnip can be a great tool to improve a cat's mood quickly and shake them out of a depressive slump.
While it's not a solution to mood disorders, it can provide your cat with a brief rush of positive emotions.
CBD Oil for Relaxing Cats
CBD oil works on the endocannabinoid system and can have a safe, calming effect without sedating them. CBD oil for cats may be the most effective option, but you can likely find CBD cat treats on the market as well.
If you'd like to learn more about CBD oil for cats, Lolahemp has a wealth of resources on the subject and our vet-formulated CBD oil is made specifically for cats, and we have oils for dogs as well.
