Introducing Valerian

Valerian for Cats: A Dual-Phase Approach to Feline Enrichment and Behavioural Well-being

In collaboration with Amanda Campion, Clinical Feline Behaviourist

What is Valerian?

Valerian (Valeriana Officinalis) is a perennial flowering plant widely recognised in human herbal medicine for its calming properties, but did you know it also has notable behavioural effects in cats?

These effects are largely due to actinidine, a compound similar to catnip’s nepetalactone, which interacts with feline olfactory and vomeronasal systems. The result? A potent mix of initial euphoric playfulness followed by deep relaxation—making valerian an invaluable tool in feline behaviour management.

This article was developed in collaboration with Amanda Campion, a certified feline behaviourist.

Amanda specialises in behavioural solutions including olfactory enrichment for single or multi-cat households, using evidence-based techniques to improve feline welfare.

For more information on her services or to book a consultation, visit www.kittysitty.net

Amanda Campion, clinical feline behaviourist at KittySitty

The DualPhase Behavioural Response

When cats encounter valerian, their behaviour typically follows a two-phase response:

• Phase One – Stimulation: Includes rolling, rubbing, playful behaviour, vocalising, purring and sometimes drooling.

• Phase Two – Calm: A gradual shift to a relaxed or restful state.

  
  

This structured arc of stimulation followed by soothing is particularly useful in behaviour therapy, offering a natural way to engage and “uplift” inactive cats while also helping overstimulated or anxious cats “wind down”.

Beyond Catnip: Responsiveness and Alternatives

A 2017 study published in BMC Veterinary Research evaluated feline responses in 100 cats to various olfactory stimulants:

• 68% responded to catnip

• 79% to silvervine

• 47% to valerian

  
  

Notably, 19% of cats that did not respond to catnip did respond to valerian, making it a valuable option for those with non-responsive cats. Individual variation in response also means valerian can be flexibly used in personalised enrichment plans.

Behavioural Applications in Multi-Cat Households

a) Preventing Overstimulation

Unlike catnip—which can heighten arousal and competition—valerian’s calming follow-up phase helps to prevent overexcitement in multi-cat environments. It allows for enrichment without triggering territorial or aggressive behaviours.

b) Easing Inter-cat Tension & Reducing Spraying

Stress-related behaviours such as urine marking and aggression are common in multi-cat homes.

Using a valerian spray can offer gentle, widespread diffusion of the scent in a room. When sprayed on specific items like toys, it can encourage play and release tension.

Valerian can be hugely supportive in this way, forming a behaviour modification toolkit that facilitates stable social interactions and reduce territorial stress.

Valerian sprays are particularly useful as they are:

• Clean and easy to apply

• Ideal for specific areas (carriers, bedding, trees and toys)

• Great for pre-emptive stress reduction

  
  

c) Smoother Transitions & Vet Visits

Valerian’s calming properties can also assist during transitional events such as moving home, introducing new pets or visiting the vet. Spraying valerian on carriers, bedding or high-traffic areas can help mitigate anxiety in these high-stress moments.

Behavioural Outcomes

• Reduced aggression and smoother group dynamics

• Decreased urine marking due to lowered stress

• Enhanced social bonding through shared enrichment

• Improved coping during environmental changes and travel

Fred’s Valerian Spray … launching 1st August!

Here at Fred’s Catnip Farm, we are delighted to reveal our brand-new Valerian Spray, made with pure, organic valerian essential oil.

It certainly packs a punch and acts as a powerful behavioural tool, which can significantly improve home harmony.

Fred’s valerian is a natural, versatile and science-backed addition to any cat guardian’s enrichment plan. It can provide a dynamic behavioural shift that both energises and calms, making it suitable for cats of varied temperaments—especially in multi-cat settings.

Valerian both energises underactive cats and soothes overstimulated ones, ideal for managing stress.

Visit https://www.fredscatnipfarm.com/category/all-products to find out more!