Cats roll in catnip mainly because the herb stimulates their brain in a rewarding, arousing way. They also use the scent to spread the active compounds on their fur and body, which can enhance the sensory experience and help them engage in play or self-soothing. Additionally, the rolling behavior may have pest-repellent benefits, as catnip contains iridoids that can deter insects, giving a potential evolutionary advantage to some cats. The response to catnip is hereditary and varies: about 50–70% of cats show a reaction, with sensitivity fading as they age or after repeated exposure. If a cat doesn’t react to catnip, it’s usually due to genetic differences or tolerance development.
