Do Lions Get High on Catnip?
Catnip, a member of the mint family, is known for its euphoric effects on cats. But do these effects extend to lions, the larger feline cousins of domestic cats? This article will investigate the answer to this intriguing question.
What is Catnip?
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is an herb that contains a compound called nepetalactone.
- Nepetalactone is the primary active ingredient responsible for catnip’s effects on cats.
- When cats inhale or ingest nepetalactone, it binds to receptors in their brains, triggering a release of endorphins and dopamine, creating a euphoric and relaxed state.
Lions vs. Cats: Sensitivity to Catnip
- Lions and cats belong to the same family, Felidae, but they have different sensitivities to catnip.
- Domestic cats have a high concentration of nepetalactone receptors in their brains, making them highly responsive to catnip.
- Lions, on the other hand, have a much lower density of nepetalactone receptors.
Research on Lions’ Response to Catnip
- Limited research has been conducted on the effects of catnip on lions.
- One study observed a group of lions exposed to catnip but found no significant behavioral changes.
- Another study exposed lions to a high concentration of catnip and observed temporary hyperactivity, but this behavior subsided within an hour.
Conclusion
Based on the available research, it is unlikely that lions get high on catnip. Their low sensitivity to nepetalactone means that they do not experience the same euphoric effects as domestic cats. While lions may show some behavioral changes when exposed to catnip, these effects are typically short-lived and not indicative of a “high” state.
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