Fresh leaves of the catnip plant (Nepatia Cataria) have a mint scent, while dried leaves smell like alfala. In members of the cat family, contact with this plant causes a peculiar reaction called the catnip response. Nepetalactone is chemically similar to hallucinations, catnip is NON TOXIC to pets. The catnip response includes initial investigation, oral contact, grasping and kicking and abandonment. It lasts an average of 6 minutes but is most intense for 2-3 minutes. Catnip can be considered a legal recreational drug for cats!!