Can Cats Have Both Silvervine and Catnip? Vet-Approved Guidelines

Reviewed By Feline Behaviorist, Herb Furston on February 18, 2025

Table of Contents

Comparative Effectiveness
Combining Silvervine and Catnip
Benefits and Uses
Safety and Usage Guidelines
Conclusion
References

Cats can indeed enjoy both silvervine and catnip safely, and combining them may even enhance the experience for some felines. Silvervine, a plant native to mountainous regions of Asia, has gained popularity as an alternative to catnip, particularly for cats who don't respond to the latter.

Comparative Effectiveness

Research shows that about 80% of cats are responsive to silvervine compared to 70% for catnip. This difference in effectiveness is due to the unique chemical compositions of each plant. Dr. Autumn Madden, a veterinarian specializing in feline medicine, explains: "silvervine has six active ingredients as well as two additional active ingredients your cat will respond to—actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide."[1] Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound known for producing a euphoric effect in many cats, which is responsible for the typical catnip response.[1]

Combining Silvervine and Catnip

The combination of silvervine and catnip can be particularly enticing for cats. Many products now offer blends of these two herbs, providing a "double whammy" of feline fun. These blends can be used to encourage play, redirect scratching behavior, or simply provide enrichment for indoor cats.

Benefits and Uses

Dr. Fiona Lee, DVM and writer for PetsBest, adds that these herbs can provide "a productive outlet for pent-up energy... it can serve as a gentle stimulant, prompting movement, play, and engagement." Additionally, they "can be a useful tool to reduce stress in cats, helping them relax or redirect their attention when they're feeling anxious."[2]

Safety and Usage Guidelines

While these herbs are safe for cats, moderation is key. It's recommended to offer these treats no more than 3-4 times a week to prevent desensitization. Always supervise cats during playtime with these herbs, and store them in airtight containers away from sunlight to maintain their potency.

Conclusion

Whether a cat prefers catnip, silvervine, or a blend of both, these natural stimulants can provide a fun and healthy way for feline friends to play and relax. Cat owners should be prepared for some entertaining "matatabi dances" and playful antics when introducing these herbs to their pets.