Discovering your cat behaving unusually, perhaps displaying symptoms reminiscent of intoxication, can be a stressful experience. While accidental exposure to intoxicating substances is a serious concern, more often, this “high” behavior in cats stems from the fascinating effects of catnip or certain other plants. Understanding the underlying causes and knowing how to safely and effectively calm your feline friend is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. This guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of how to manage a “high” cat, whether from catnip or other potential sources.
Understanding Why Your Cat Might Be “High”
Before diving into calming techniques, it’s essential to understand why your cat is exhibiting these behaviors. The most common cause is catnip, but other factors can also contribute.
The Catnip Connection
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, a chemical that affects about 50-75% of cats. When inhaled, nepetalactone binds to receptors in the cat’s nose, stimulating sensory neurons that lead to altered behavior. This can manifest as:
- Euphoria and excitement
- Playfulness and hyperactivity
- Rolling, rubbing, and vocalization
- A temporary state of relaxation or sleepiness
The effects of catnip usually last between 5 and 15 minutes. Importantly, catnip is generally considered safe for cats, but understanding the duration and intensity of the reaction is key.
Other Potential Causes of Altered Behavior
While catnip is the most likely culprit, other possibilities should be considered, especially if your cat hasn’t been exposed to catnip. These include:
- Other Plants: Some plants, like silvervine and valerian root, can have similar effects to catnip, though they affect different receptors.
- Medications: Accidental ingestion of human or animal medications can cause a range of neurological symptoms.
- Toxins: Exposure to household cleaners, insecticides, or other toxic substances can lead to behavioral changes and neurological distress.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: In rare cases, neurological disorders or infections can mimic the signs of intoxication.
If you suspect your cat has ingested a medication or toxin, or if the behavior is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Recognizing the Signs of a “High” Cat
Identifying the specific signs of a “high” cat will help you determine the likely cause and choose the appropriate course of action. The symptoms can vary depending on the substance ingested and the individual cat’s sensitivity.
Common Signs of Catnip Intoxication
These signs are generally mild and short-lived:
- Increased Playfulness: Your cat may become more energetic and playful than usual, chasing toys or engaging in mock hunting behavior.
- Rolling and Rubbing: Cats often roll around on the floor, rub their faces and bodies against objects, and purr contentedly.
- Vocalization: Increased meowing, purring, or even growling can occur.
- Dazed or Dreamy Stare: A glazed-over or unfocused look in their eyes is common.
- Temporary Sleepiness: After the initial excitement, some cats become relaxed and sleepy.
Signs That Might Indicate a More Serious Problem
These signs warrant immediate veterinary attention:
- Disorientation and Confusion: Stumbling, staggering, or an inability to navigate familiar surroundings.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: These can indicate ingestion of a toxic substance.
- Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle contractions or convulsions are a serious sign.
- Difficulty Breathing: Labored breathing or wheezing.
- Loss of Consciousness: Unresponsiveness to stimuli.
- Tremors: Shaking or trembling.
- Excessive Drooling: Drooling more than usual.
- Aggression: Uncharacteristic aggressive behavior.
If you observe any of these concerning signs, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
How to Calm Down a Cat on Catnip
When your cat is experiencing the effects of catnip, the primary goal is to ensure their safety and comfort until the effects wear off. Since catnip is generally harmless, intervention is usually minimal.
Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment
- Remove Potential Hazards: Clear the area of any objects that could be knocked over or broken during your cat’s playful antics.
- Provide a Soft and Quiet Space: Offer a comfortable bed or blanket where your cat can relax if they choose to.
- Dim the Lights: A dimly lit environment can help soothe and calm an overstimulated cat.
Avoid Overstimulation
- Limit Interaction: While it’s tempting to play with your cat, too much interaction can prolong the effects of the catnip. Let them enjoy their “high” without excessive stimulation.
- Reduce Noise: Keep the environment quiet and avoid loud noises that could startle or agitate your cat.
Provide Fresh Water
- Ensure Hydration: Make sure your cat has access to fresh water, especially if they are being particularly active.
Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior
- Observe for Any Concerning Signs: Watch for any signs that deviate from typical catnip reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or disorientation.
Remember, the effects of catnip are temporary. Most cats will return to their normal behavior within 5-15 minutes.
Calming Techniques for Other Potential “Highs”
If you suspect your cat’s altered behavior is due to something other than catnip, the approach is different and often requires veterinary intervention.
Immediate Actions
- Identify the Potential Substance: If possible, determine what your cat might have ingested or been exposed to. This information will be crucial for your veterinarian.
- Collect a Sample: If your cat has vomited, collect a sample in a clean container for your veterinarian to analyze.
- Contact Your Veterinarian: Call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately. Describe your cat’s symptoms and any potential substances they may have been exposed to. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
Veterinary Treatment
Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work or urine analysis, to determine the cause of your cat’s symptoms. Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause and may include:
- Inducing Vomiting: If the substance was ingested recently, your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove it from the cat’s system.
- Administering Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Providing Supportive Care: Supportive care may include intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and medications to control seizures or other symptoms.
- Administering an Antidote: If the specific toxin is known and an antidote is available, your veterinarian will administer it.
Creating a Calm Recovery Environment
Regardless of the cause of your cat’s altered behavior, providing a calm and supportive environment is crucial for their recovery.
- Isolate Your Cat: Keep your cat in a quiet, comfortable room away from other pets and children.
- Provide a Soft Bed: Offer a soft and comfortable bed where your cat can rest.
- Monitor Their Behavior: Observe your cat closely for any changes in their condition.
- Follow Your Veterinarian’s Instructions: Administer any medications as prescribed and follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully.
Prevention is Key
Preventing your cat from getting “high” in the first place is the best approach.
Catnip Safety
- Control Catnip Exposure: Limit the amount of catnip your cat has access to and how often they are exposed.
- Store Catnip Properly: Store catnip in an airtight container out of your cat’s reach.
- Supervise Catnip Use: Supervise your cat while they are enjoying catnip and remove it after 15-20 minutes.
Preventing Exposure to Other Substances
- Store Medications Safely: Keep all medications, both human and animal, in secure containers out of your cat’s reach.
- Secure Household Cleaners and Chemicals: Store household cleaners, insecticides, and other chemicals in locked cabinets or high shelves.
- Be Aware of Toxic Plants: Research which plants are toxic to cats and avoid bringing them into your home. A quick online search for “plants toxic to cats” will reveal extensive lists.
- Supervise Outdoor Activities: When allowing your cat outdoors, supervise them closely to prevent them from ingesting potentially harmful substances.
When to Seek Professional Help
It’s crucial to know when to seek professional veterinary care for your cat.
- Uncertainty About the Cause: If you are unsure why your cat is behaving strangely, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian.
- Presence of Concerning Symptoms: As mentioned earlier, any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness warrant immediate veterinary attention.
- Prolonged or Worsening Symptoms: If your cat’s symptoms persist for more than a few hours or worsen over time, seek veterinary care.
- Known Exposure to Toxic Substances: If you know or suspect that your cat has ingested a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
Your veterinarian is the best resource for determining the cause of your cat’s altered behavior and providing appropriate treatment.
Final Thoughts
While seeing your cat “high” on catnip can be amusing, it’s essential to understand the potential causes of altered behavior and know how to respond appropriately. By creating a safe environment, monitoring your cat’s behavior, and seeking veterinary care when necessary, you can ensure their well-being and provide them with the best possible care. Remember, prevention is always the best medicine. Taking steps to prevent exposure to toxic substances and managing catnip use can help keep your feline friend safe and happy. Knowing how to calm down a high cat is a crucial skill for any responsible cat owner.
What are the common signs that my cat is high?
Observable signs of a high cat can vary depending on the substance ingested and the individual cat’s sensitivity. Common indicators include dilated pupils, uncoordinated movements (stumbling or swaying), excessive drooling, and a glazed or unfocused gaze. Your cat might also exhibit unusual vocalizations, such as excessive meowing or hissing, or display behavioral changes like disorientation, agitation, or a sudden shift in personality, becoming either unusually affectionate or withdrawn.
In addition to these behavioral clues, physiological signs may also be present. Your cat might experience increased heart rate, elevated body temperature, or even vomiting. It’s crucial to observe your cat carefully and note any deviations from their normal behavior or physical condition to accurately assess if they are indeed under the influence of a substance.
What should I do immediately if I suspect my cat is high?
The very first thing you need to do is ensure your cat’s safety and prevent them from accessing any more of the suspected substance. Remove anything that could be potentially harmful from their reach, such as plants, medications, or recreational drugs. Confine them to a safe, quiet, and comfortable space, like a carrier or a small room, to minimize the risk of further injury or disorientation.
Once you’ve secured their environment, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Provide them with as much detail as possible regarding what you suspect your cat ingested, the amount (if known), and the symptoms they are exhibiting. They will be able to provide guidance on the next steps, which may involve monitoring them at home or bringing them to the clinic for treatment.
What are the potential dangers of a cat being high?
The dangers associated with a cat being high depend largely on the specific substance ingested and the quantity. Some substances, like certain essential oils or household cleaners, can cause serious organ damage or even death. Even substances considered relatively “safe” for humans, such as marijuana, can be toxic to cats due to their smaller size and different physiology.
Beyond the direct toxicity of the substance, a high cat can also be at risk of injuring themselves due to impaired coordination and judgment. They may fall, get lost, or become aggressive and injure themselves or others. Furthermore, depending on the substance, respiratory distress, seizures, and coma are possible complications.
How can I create a safe and calming environment for my high cat?
Creating a calming environment is paramount when dealing with a high cat. Dim the lights to reduce sensory overload and minimize loud noises by turning off the television or radio. Provide a comfortable and familiar bedding area, such as their favorite blanket or cat bed, to offer a sense of security.
Gentle reassurance can also be helpful, but avoid overwhelming your cat with too much attention. Speak softly and calmly, and if they allow it, gently pet them in areas they enjoy. Keep a close watch on them, but try to maintain a non-anxious demeanor yourself, as cats can sense your stress.
What are some common substances that can cause a cat to get high?
Several substances can cause intoxication in cats, often with harmful consequences. Marijuana, whether ingested directly or through secondhand smoke, is a common culprit. Many household medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can be highly toxic to cats, as are certain cleaning products and insecticides.
Furthermore, some plants, such as lilies, are extremely poisonous to cats and can cause severe kidney damage. Even seemingly harmless substances like chocolate or certain essential oils can be dangerous. Always keep potentially harmful substances out of your cat’s reach and be aware of the plants in your home and garden.
What kind of veterinary treatment might my cat need if they are high?
The specific veterinary treatment required for a high cat depends entirely on the substance ingested, the severity of the symptoms, and the cat’s overall health. In some cases, simply monitoring the cat and providing supportive care, such as fluids and anti-nausea medication, may be sufficient. However, more severe cases may require more intensive intervention.
Inducing vomiting to remove the substance from the cat’s system is often considered, but this should only be done by a veterinarian or under their direct guidance, as it can be dangerous in certain situations. Other potential treatments include administering activated charcoal to absorb the toxin, providing oxygen therapy for respiratory distress, and administering anticonvulsants for seizures.
How can I prevent my cat from getting high in the future?
Prevention is key to protecting your cat from accidental intoxication. Store all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, in secure, childproof containers and keep them out of your cat’s reach. The same goes for cleaning products, insecticides, and other potentially harmful substances. Be mindful of where you store recreational drugs and take precautions to prevent accidental ingestion.
Educate yourself on plants that are toxic to cats and avoid bringing them into your home. If you use essential oils, diffuse them in a well-ventilated area and ensure your cat cannot directly access them. Be mindful of secondhand smoke and avoid exposing your cat to it. By taking these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your cat accidentally ingesting something harmful.