What is Silver Vine?
Silvervine is a plant whose actual name is Actinidia polygama. You probably aren’t familiar with it because it probably doesn’t grow where you live. It comes from the high elevations in the mountainous areas of Japan and China.
Cats respond to silvervine similarly to the way that they do to catnip, rolling, rubbing in it, drooling, and even licking it. The main difference is that in catnip, cats respond to the chemical compound nepetalactone. In silvervine, cats respond to the chemical actinidine.
Silvervine and catnip having different chemicals that make cats respond means that some cats who don’t respond to catnip will show interest in silvervine. Other cats respond to both. The amount of enthusiasm varies by the cat.
A study published showed that 65% of cats respond to catnip, and almost 80% of domestic cats respond to silvervine.
Enhance your cat's playtime with Cat Toys and discover the benefits of silver vine sticks, a safe and exciting way to keep your cat entertained.
What’s the difference between catnip and silvervine?
Catnip and silvervine are both plants that elicit strong reactions from cats due to specific chemical compounds they contain. These compounds stimulate cats' olfactory receptors, leading to behaviors like rolling, rubbing, drooling, and licking. However, the primary chemicals in each plant differ, which is why some cats may respond to one but not the other.
Chemicals that attract cats:
Catnip: contains nepetalactone, which is the primary attractant for cats, along with several other minor compounds.
- Nepetalactone
- Epinepetalactone
- Iridomyrmecin
- Isoiridomyrmecin
- Dihydronepetalactone
- Isodihydronepetalactone
- Neonepetalactone
Sliver vine: contains actinide and dihydroactinidiolide as its main attractants, which can be effective for cats that do not respond to catnip.
- Actinide
- Dihydroactinidiolide
- Isoiridomyrmecin
- Iridomyrmecin
- Isoiridomyrmecin
- Neonepetalactone
How do cats respond to silvervine?
When flies lay their eggs in silvervine fruit, they become bumpy and are known as “gall fruit”. Then they’re dipped in boiling water to kill the larvae inside and dried out in the sun. According to a study published in BMC Veterinary Research, cats predominantly respond to silvervine fruit galls. They’re available whole or ground into a light brown powder.
The fruit, leaves, buds, and stems of silvervine have a sweet, pungent smell. But kittens (less than eight months old) and pregnant females might not have any reaction. Most cats will meow or moderately drool. They’ll also zip through the house, roll around on their sides or backs, give cheek or chin rubs, and bunny kick toys. Although silvervine isn’t as well-known in the Western world, it’s so popular in Asia that a cat’s reaction to it is known as the “Matatabi Dance.”
“The hallucination effects usually only last five to 30 minutes. At most, you’ll see signs for about an hour in your cat,” Ochoa says.
Can Cats Eat Silver Vine?
Yes, cats can eat silver vine, and it is generally considered safe and non-toxic for them. Here are some key points to understand:
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Safety and Non-Toxicity: Silver vine, also known as Actinidia polygama, is safe for cats to consume. It has been used traditionally in Asian countries like Japan and China for many years without any reported adverse effects on cats.
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Edible Parts: The fruit, leaves, buds, and stems of the silver vine plant are all parts that can be ingested by cats. These parts contain the compounds that stimulate cats and make them enjoy silver vine.
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Chemical Compounds: The primary chemicals in silver vine that attract cats are actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide. These compounds interact with the cat’s olfactory system, leading to behaviors such as rolling, rubbing, and licking.
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Behavioral Effects: When cats ingest silver vine, they often exhibit playful and euphoric behaviors. This includes rolling around, rubbing their faces on surfaces, and showing signs of contentment and relaxation.
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Duration of Effects: The euphoric effects of silver vine typically last between five to thirty minutes. After this period, cats generally return to their normal behavior without any lingering effects.
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Dental Health: Chewing on silver vine sticks can help promote dental hygiene in cats by reducing tartar buildup on their teeth. This provides a dual benefit of mental stimulation and physical health.
Is it safe for cats to ingest silver vine sticks?
Silver vine leaf sticks are considered safe and non-toxic for cats. But as an added precaution they advised that play sessions should be supervised, and if the stick does become particularly chewed or destroyed, then you could replace it with a new one or throw away just in case of splinters.
Is Silvervine good for cats?
Silvervine has a euphoric effect on cats, it makes them active, playful, affectionate and it has no side effects whatsoever. Aside from getting some exercise, the cat will also feel relaxed even after the effect of the silvervine has passed.
Buy Organic Silvervine Sticks for Cats
We have an organic Slivervine Sticks choosing for your cat. Your kitten needs an active play buddy to keep it mentally healthy and in shape. This toy, with its tasty silvervine stick, and dangling string, gets your little feline fired up. It comes in two variations - Cupcake and Tempura - to coax your kitty into getting some much-needed hunting exercise. The string is soft, the toy is plush, and the silvervine stick makes it both an awesome exercise toy and a healthy snack.
Treat your cat to the most purr-fect toy money can buy. A combination of an all-natural, plant-based treat and an exciting toy. To help your kittens relieve stress, eliminate bloat, calm down, and stay fit even indoors.
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Attention-grabbing Toy: Colorful plush toy, taunting string, and a healthy silvervine stick makes this cat tease instantly capture your furry friend's attention.
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Hunting Exercise: A perfect way to provide your cat with a daily dose of exercise, and quench its predatory side.
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More Potent Alternative to Catnip: Unlike catnip which has a single attractant, nepetalactone, silvervine boasts a dual olfactory attractant which is actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide.
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Promotes Dental Hygiene: Silvervine sticks are all-natural and safe. Not only do they exude a euphoric effect on your kitten, but they also knock the tartar off their teeth when chewing on one.
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Stress Busting Toy: Cats can get stressed too. This can range from a change in environment to the arrival of a new cat. To calm them down, some bonding time and a little silvervine can do the trick.
Find more in our store!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I give my cat Silvervine?
It's best to give your cat Silvervine a few times a week to keep it interesting and enjoyable. Too much might make it less effective over time.
2. Can Silvervine sticks make a mess in my home?
While Silvervine sticks are generally clean, they can leave some bits and pieces behind if chewed extensively. It's a good idea to use them in an easy-to-clean area.
3. What if my cat doesn’t respond to Silvervine?
Not all cats react to Silvervine. If your cat doesn’t show interest, try introducing it again after a few weeks or test with a different Silvervine product like powder or toys.
4. How can I store Silvervine to keep it fresh?
Store Silvervine in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain its potency and keeps it fresh for longer periods.
5. What should I do if my cat chews the Silvervine stick into small pieces?
If the stick becomes too chewed or splintered, it's best to replace it to avoid any choking hazards or ingestion of sharp pieces.
6. Can I combine Silvervine with other cat toys or treats?
Absolutely! Combining Silvervine with other toys or treats can enhance your cat's playtime experience. Just ensure the other toys or treats are safe and appropriate for your cat.
7. Is it safe for kittens and older cats to use Silvervine?
Silvervine is generally safe for all cats, but kittens under eight months might not react to it. Always supervise younger and older cats during play to ensure they use it safely.
