We cats of Whiskerland often ask ourselves: What is life like for other cats around the world? Are they given humiliating names like Tiddles or Fluffkin? Do they have access to high-grade catnip? Are there dogs? Well, today, we're going to answer some of those questions with a whisker-stop tour of the cat world. So grab a free hit, and read on for some fun and furry cat facts from across the globe.
From the poky pod hotels of Tokyo, to the chocolate box cottages of the English countryside, our kitty comrades lead a fascinating array of lives shaped by (here's the intellectual bit) cultural norms, historical contexts, and the availability of cat nip (free hit). So, buckle up kitties (and kitty carers) as we go around the world in (roughly) 800 words about cats. Here comes the list…
The United States: Home of the Brave (but caged)
Around 70% of American cats live exclusively indoors, far from the global norm. Mostly coddled due to concerns about safety—we would have assumed the safety of local wildlife, but there is actually more concern about us, as if we can't look after ourselves!!! These pampered purr-machines can barely imagine a life without climate control, cable TV, and, of course, wall-to-wall catnip. Sounds perfect!
Why do cats like catnip? Nepetalactone, the magical and 100% natural compound in catnip, binds to cat-specific receptors in our noses, triggering a tornado of loved-up euphoria. For indoor cats, catnip toys and catnip-infused cat scratching posts are good ways of keeping us active and entertained, so we don't become fat cats. But can cats get addicted to catnip if they have too much? Absolutely not! We might look like kitty-catnip junkies, but it's all good, harmless, fun, and completely non-addictive!
Japan: Land of the Rising Meow
Our Japanese cat cousins are revered, both in folklore and popular culture. They enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor life, especially in rural areas. In cities where our lives are typically more indoorsy, cat cafes are all the rage, allowing humans to sip fancy coffees with unnecessarily complex names, while we saunter around looking fabulous.
Catnip is a beloved treat in Japan, a country where serenity is a major vibe. But does catnip calm cats? Yes - many Japanese cats are given catnip to help them relax, especially amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.
Great Kitten: A Nation of Furry-Friend Fanciers
Britain has a longstanding love affair with cats – they're classy people. Life for felines typically takes place both indoors and outdoors. Most cats use human gardens as their personal playgrounds, and it's not uncommon to see us lounging on old stone walls, looking amazing, and surveying our kingdoms with regal disdain. We love to hunt the local wildlife, which does not tend to be endangered by our bloodthirsty habits. Foxes are a concern, but the truth is, most foxes are afraid of cats – we have very sharp claws. And with an outdoorsy lifestyle like this, what does catnip do to cats? British cats use catnip to maximize indoor and outdoor playtime. Tally-ho!
Egypt: Denial by the Nile
Although we all know that cats are descendants of revered gods, and as such, should be treated with respect, in Egypt, they actually act on this knowledge. In past times, cats were even mummified alongside pharaohs. Today, Egyptian cats still hold a special place in society, roaming freely, and basking in the admiration of all. Yet they have been – by and large – denied the pleasure of the finest catnip (free hit). It is though, catching on. And is there a danger that newer catnip users can get carried away? Can cats overdose on catnip? Fear not. Although over-indulgence can cause a mild, groggy hangover - and at worst, an upset stomach - this is rare. Catnip is 100% natural and non-toxic; it cannot harm cats.
Australia: Dilemmas Down Under
Australia is a tricky place for cats. Due to our impact on endangered native wildlife, there are strict regulations on outdoor cats. Consequently, many Aussie cats are kept indoors or in enclosed "catios." But don't worry, mate - they've got catnip to keep them entertained.
Catnip's effects on cats in Australia are no different from anywhere else. A burst of playful energy followed by a blissful chill-out session is just what's needed. (Editor: Perhaps a BBQ and a game of cricket later is what sets them apart?) Catnip keeps Australian cats active, even if they can't roam the outback hunting koalas as they'd like.
France: Sophisti-cats
French cats are the epitome of elegance, often found lounging in sunlit Parisian apartments, or quaint countryside chateaux. The French approach to life is famously laissez-faire, which gives cats a degree of independence that suits our sophisticated natures. Because of the French belief in the importance of fine food, however, French cats may well be prone to hissy fits when fobbed off with economy kibble. Does catnip calm cats in such situations? Mais oui! And you can find a full article on how to treat hissy fits here.
China: Meow-say-chums
In China, cat ownership is fast on the rise. We're often kept indoors to protect us from the dangers of busy city life. Cat cafes, like in Japan, are becoming increasingly popular, providing city dwellers with much-needed feline interaction with each other and their human friends. Catnip use is relatively new, prompting the question: Why do cats like catnip? The answer transcends borders: it's just brilliant!
A Final Purr-spective
In Turkey, in huge contrast to the USA, cats roam freely, and are often considered a communal responsibility. In Russia, cats are prized for their hunting skills, which often ironically means indoor lives - they're placed in museums and historical buildings to help control rodent populations. We cats lead diverse and fascinating existences, in which the blessed herb – catnip – plays a vital role. So the next time someone asks, what does catnip do to cats, you can tell them - with confidence – that it simply helps us be ourselves and live our best lives, wherever we are, in the wonderful wide world of cats.
Check out more facts about cats around the world here, here, here, here and here!