Felines are known to be an active and inquisitive bunch as that jumps to explain why they get attracted to certain scents or other substances that fuel their expansion or calm them down. For many people, catnip has been their long used hit for pampering cats, however there’s a new kid on the block which is gaining traction among cats significantly quicker than catnip- silverbine. This all-organic remedy is slowly but certainly taking the grievance of the cat owners by storm as it provides an additional method to boost up their enrichment for the beauty. So in this blog we will delve into the depths of silver vine as to why’s it so difficult to resist, what distinguishes it from there’s an abundance of catnip, and the factors that may coax your furry friend to try it.
What is Silvervine and How Does It Differ from Catnip?
Let’s Learn About This Interesting Species, Actinidia Polygama: Silvervine
Silvervine has been found to grow in the higher altitudes of Asia, as this vine grows in the mountains and resembles a climbing plant. The ingredients in silvervine differ from those of catnip, as the latter relies on one ingredient essentially to attract cats, which is nepetalactone. As such, the active components of silvervine include two substances called actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide. But silvervine on the other hand does have two components which enables a better change in reaction along with a bunch of more responses, and even though the components may not be addictive, quite the opposite is true. The reason for this is because many of the cats that do not react to catnip are found to have better responses with silvervine and so it turns into a good substitute for them.
Will The Differences Between Silvervine And Catnip Have A Big Enough Difference On Cats
The difference between the two or the way they affect calm and playful cats is similar, but the use of silvervine provides increased stimulation and support. While combative behaviors in felines usually come with vigorous or joyful anger, catnip acts as an online switch to flick the playful switch the cats have. As this plant has the ability to create addtional commotion amongst the kittys. Cats under the effect of silvervine may roll, rub, and purr, or play with the fresh toy exposing them to a mild euphoric feeling. This exposure is reasonable, as silvervine consists of two components – actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, which serve cat-eating cats and calm the other. And around under 50% but more than 30% of the cats that don’t react to catnip have shown a favourable reaction to silvervine, which allows cats to utilise a broader variety of silvervine.
Why Some Cats Respond to Silvervine but Not Catnip
When you talk about pet cats, one of the most interesting things which I have always found captivating as a pet parent or as someone who enjoys cats, is the fact that not all cats respond to catnip. And this is actually due to the genetic variability – There are some cats that simply do not possess the particular receptors in their brains that are activated by the compound nepetalactone, or the active substance found in catnip. Now, according to what I have previously been told, roughly some 30-50% percent of the cats fall into this category. Now, as for silvervine, that’s a different scenario. In its mix of actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, it activates new sensory receptors and seems stimulate cats that don’t respond to catnip. So far so good, I’ve noticed that silvervine offers an alternative way of activating such cats and allows them to experience the same joy and enrichment. To me, it seems like all cats would benefit from such pros and offerings – it’s a neat way of ensuring that every cat has a bit of fun in their day.
How Can I Give Silvervine to My Cat?
Powder from Silver Vine: Application and Advantages
Silvervine powder is very useful as it is easy to apply. Just sprinkle some on your cat’s scratching post, favourite toy or any other horizontal place. Numerous cats will seem to enjoy it by licking it, rubbing against it or just sniffing it. Mixing the powder in the treats, can also be a way of serving it. Always try and give your cat a little, just so you can see its reaction and the cat has a good time without any risk.
The Best Chewing Aid for Cats
In my opinion silvervine sticks are a natural solution for cats who prefer chewing sticks. These sticks are branches of the silvervines plant which poses no threat to cats. Cats love to chew sticks, so I have a habit of giving my cat a stick to chew because it helps keep my cat’s teeth clean and healthy by eliminating plaque. For quite a long time chews, bats, and rub stick against my cat and that seems to satisfy and stimulate him. To avoid a choking hazard, I always supervise my cat during playtime and take away the stick as soon it is too small.
Utilizing Silvervine in Cat Toys and Cat Beds
Using silvervine in your cat’s toys or their sleeping spaces can be an awesome way to enrich their surroundings and entertain them. For toys, you may want to buy ones with silvervine embedded already, or you can put small amounts of silvervine powder to some of their favorite toys. This can spark your cat’s curiosity to play with old or constantly ignored toys. For beds or resting midpoints, use silvervine petals that can be stored around where the bedding is placed or put a sprinkling of silvervine to the bedding. This setup can smooth and entertain your cat allowing it to have good time playing and taking rest. Always monitor your cat’s response to the new changes and be sure to check that the silvervine does not have any adverse or toxic response.
Is Silvervine Safe for Cats?
Veterinary Take on Nursing Silvervine
Silvervine is generally ingested to some extent, therefore, it is mostly considered safe for use but it is always better to replace and supervise your cat’s exposure. Silvervine is non toxic and there are minimal or almost none health hazards that it poses on Felines as cats and other animals possess the instincts to avoid dangerous items but for their safety and monitoring you need to have input from a veterinarian if occurrences happen that are not normal to them.
Ideal Dosage and Proper Wrapper of Using Silvervine
Moderation is key when it comes to cats eating silvervine the most ideal exposure for them to have is between three to four days a week if any higher it poses a threat as it could result in overexposure which will later down the line start doing the opposite of stimulating your cat and instead turning them off towards silvervine. Two pouch and a one single sachet is more than enough for your cats as they don’t have quite strong appetites but if you are still unsure and require assistance make sure to consult a veterinarian to get help with that.
Before use please bear in mind the possible side effects.
In my experience, silvervine is a nice form of enrichment for my cat but nonetheless, I keep an eye on him at all times. In rare cases, some of the studies found that cats can drool heavily or become overly lethargic when using Silver Vine but these have been proven to be rare side effects. I do remember that the last time I forced my cat into silvervine and he began to vomit for about 20 minutes. From this day onwards I have only been feeding him small portions so that his safety is not compromised. I have found that this method extends the experience and also prevents my cat from losing interest by over stimulation.
What Are the Benefits of Silvervine for Cats?
Stress Relief and Mood Enhancement
Silvervine has been shown to have excellent effects in encouraging playful behavior of a cat which greatly aids in reducing its stress and mood improvement. Silvervine’s natural compounds like actinidine and Dihydroactinidiolide also helps in calming cats and lessening anxiety while promoting relaxation. Most of the cat owners are also pleased to notice that silver vine is playful and recreational, strengthening their relationship with the pet.
Playtime Stimulation and Exercise
But perhaps the most important use of silver vine is that it serves as a great addition in stimulating playtime as well exercising the cats. Many cats when exposed to silvervine tend to roll, pounce and chase; these behaviors are fun to do and assist in managing optimal body weight. Even the laziest and most overweight cat can become a lively adventurer with this easily accessible and natural cat stimulant, which aids in developing muscle and overall athleticism. Furthermore, silver vine promotes excitement, urge and inquisitiveness which helps to occupy the mind alleviating boredom and decreasing destructive behavior like scratching the furniture or excessive meowing. Overall, by using silvervine your cat will be completely active on physical levels and its mind as well.
Benefits of Cat Silvervine Sticks
Silvervine also offers considerable advantages regarding your cat’s dental health. Chewing on silvervine sticks or on toys filled with silvervine helps remove plaque and tartar from their teeth. This chewing activity complements the natural behaviors that prevent or reduce oral hygiene problems, thereby reducing the chances of future dental issues such as gingivitis or halitosis. Making silvervine an integral aspect of your cat’s routine allows for stronger teeth and gums to develop, but more importantly, allows dental care to be a fun process for them. Furthermore, it is a fantastic solution for cats who might otherwise be averse to more traditional dental cleaning techniques.
How Do Cats React to Silvervine?
Typical Feline Behavior In the Presence of Silvervine
When in contact with silvervine, the behavior that felines exhibit includes Silvervine face rubbing, purring, rolling on the silvervine, or even jumping and running around which emphasizes that they’re in play mode. Some even bite on silvervine sticks and chew on silvervine toys for fun and stimulation. These reactions are similar to those seen with catnip but are often more intense and longer in duration. However, this does not mean all felines are fond of silvervine; this is due to heightened sensitivity differences among individual cats.
Differences in Behavior of Kittens and Adult Cats
Behavioral responses to silvervine generally differ significantly for a cat in its infancy and one that is fully matured. This could be a result of developmental and sensory factors. For instance, Kittens aged 3 to 6 months do not seem to have receptors that respond effectively towards the silvervine and hence may not respond towards it as much. On the other hand, adult cats are more likely to exhibit playful behavior including rubbing and rolling among others when they smell the silvervine as they have matured. It is however worth noting that regardless of age factors, specific differential characteristics among cats can still determine their responses.
How long does Silvervine get to affect your cats?
It has been observed that the effects that silvervine has on cats last between five to thirty minutes considering the individual cat. However, after that time frame the responsiveness or the sensitivity to silvervine starts to decrease and the cat either loses interest in the sensation or waits for the effect to wear off completely, which takes several hours. I have noticed the periods of activity where my cats were rolling, chewing or pouncing on silvervine toy which was a bit odd. It is also interesting noticing that there is a variety of time span between different cats, some remain excitable for a considerable amount of time while others calm down quite fast. If it’s your first time trying silvervine, ensure that your cat has not been exposed to it before as this could yield high chances of them wanting more. The responsive nature of your cat truly does change when a break is given between the exposures.
Reference sources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Â
Q: What is silvervine and what would kitty’s reaction to be?
A: Silvervine, or matatabi, is an Actinidia polygama which is a climbing, ivy-like plant. It is a substitute for catnips that can provide an endless amount of joy to your cat. Silvervine is preferred by cats because it contains elements that motivate them, and more often than not, stronger than the effect of catnip.
Q: How do I provide silvervine to your cat?
A: There are different ways to make sure your feline can enjoy silvervine: dried fruit, silver vine powder or even toys filled with the extract. You can sprinkle it on a cat’s bed, add it into other toys, or use something like Meowy Janes, which is a silvervine based product that will certainly entertain a cat.
Q: Is silver vine okay for cats?
A: Yes, silver vine can be considered safe for most domesticated cats when given the appropriate amount. But as it is with every new item, every cat’s reactions should be examined for optimal safety. If unsure, please contact your veterinarian before getting silvervine for your cat.
Q: What happens if my cat is allergic or just does not like catnip?
A: If your cat does not respond to catnip, try other herbs for your cat like silver vine, many cats that dislike catnip react positively to silvervine. It is best to try both since some cats can be more fond of silvervine than catnip.
Q: Can you please tell us what silver vine actually is and where it is primarily found?
A: Silvervine is found in Japan and China region. It got its name due to the silvery coloration that is found on its leaves. This plant is used in Japan and China for centuries both for people and because of its effect on cats.
Q: From your research can you detail the currently known or used part of the silver vine plant (cats’ use)?
A: The wealthy part of the silver vine plant for cats is the gall fruit, which has the highest percentage of active compounds. However, the stem, leaves and the bark of the plant are also useful. There are commercial products that use a mix of these parts, and with them have been produced silver vine powder or other dried products.
