Valerian For Cats Sleep

It s often referred to as nature s valium due to its ability to help improve sleep and strong calming properties for us.

Valerian for cats sleep. Many small clinical studies have been done to test the efficacy and safety of valerian root for sleep. Valerian valeriana officinalis caprifoliaceae is a perennial flowering plant native to europe and asia. Valerian is a herb and it s the root of the plant that s used in medicines and kitty toys. Before you decide to take a valerian supplement for insomnia consider the following.

Cats are fascinated by valerian. In the summer when the mature plant may have a height of 1 5 metres 5 ft it bears sweetly scented pink or white flowers that attract many fly species especially hoverflies of the genus eristalis. Avoid caffeine late in the day maintain a regular sleep schedule get regular exercise and wind down an hour or two before bed. Start with lifestyle habits that influence sleep.

Results have been mixed. Medication may not be the answer. It also has a similar effect on cats as i ll be explaining in this article. The pheromone properties help explain cats different reactions to valerian.

Valerian as a natural sedative has a very soothing effect on humans but for cats has quite the opposite effect causing intense arousal hallucinations inappropriate behavior. Valerian is given to dogs because of its ability to calm them down without altering brain function like a pharmaceutical sedative would. The difference between a cat s reaction to valerian versus catnip is often a lot more pronounced. Cats will engage in stalking and hunting behavior after ingesting valerian.

In a 2009 placebo controlled study for example women with insomnia. It is consumed as food by the larvae of some lepidoptera butterfly and moth species. Valerian could interact with some sedatives narcotics antidepressants and anti seizure medicines. Excited playful behavior such as rolling is very common when a cat has valerian.