Matatabi for Cats: Benefits, Safety, and How to Use It

Discover everything you need to know about matatabi (silver vine) for cats, including benefits, safety, and how to use this powerful catnip alternative.

What is Matatabi? Understanding Silver Vine for Cats

Matatabi (also spelled matatabi), scientifically known as Actinidia polygama, is commonly called silver vine and represents one of nature's most potent cat attractants. This climbing plant, native to mountainous regions of China, Japan, and Russia, has been captivating felines for centuries with its irresistible effects.

Silver vine is safe and beneficial for cats, recognized by veterinary sources as non-harmful. Unlike regular catnip, which affects approximately 70% of cats, Matatabi can stimulate 70-80% of domestic cats, making it an excellent alternative for felines who don't respond to traditional catnip (Nepeta cataria).

What Science Says About Matatabi (Silvervine)

Modern scientific studies have confirmed that Matatabi, or Silvervine, is not only a good natural stimulant for cats, but also safe and non-addictive.

A 2023 study published in iScience by Uenoyama et al. examined the long-term use of silvervine in domestic cats and found that it activates the brain’s μ-opioid system, resulting in euphoria similar to catnip, but with stronger effects. Crucially, the study showed no signs of addiction or physiological stress, even in cats exposed for over 3 years. Blood tests indicated normal liver, kidney, and stress hormone levels, supporting its safety for extended use (Uenoyama et al., 2023).

Similarly, a 2012 review by Abramson et al. published in the American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences debunked long-standing myths about Matatabi being addictive or neurologically harmful. The authors concluded that there is no scientific evidence of brain damage or dependency in cats exposed to silvervine. Instead, they highlighted its benefits as a sensory enrichment tool that stimulates natural feline behaviors like rolling, rubbing, and playful excitement, especially valuable for indoor or stressed cats.

These findings confirm what cat lovers in Asia have known for centuries: Matatabi is a science-backed, wellness-enhancing treat that can safely enrich your cat’s life.

How Actinidine & Dihydronepetalactone Make Cats Go Wild

Silver vine contains two powerful iridoid compounds, actinidine and dihydronepetalactone, that trigger euphoric responses in cats by stimulating their olfactory system. These compounds bind to receptors in the nasal tissue and activate the brain’s μ-opioid reward pathway, producing behaviors like rolling, rubbing, licking, and playfulness (Uenoyama et al., 2021).

However, not all cats respond the same way, research shows that actinidine produces highly varied reactions among individual cats. In one study, only 2 out of 5 cats responded strongly to actinidine, while the others showed little or no interest even after extended exposure. This variability suggests that genetic factors may influence a cat’s sensitivity to this specific compound (Bol et al., 2023). A separate study by Uenoyama et al. found similar results, only 1 out of 12 cats responded to actinidine, while the others responded well to other silver vine compounds like dihydronepetalactone and nepetalactol.

This means that while actinidine is potent, it’s less universally effective than other iridoids in silver vine. That's why products made from whole silver vine leaves or fruit, containing a blend of active compounds, are more likely to stimulate a wider range of cats.

How Cats React to Matatabi

When cats encounter Matatabi, they typically exhibit several distinctive behaviors:

• Rolling and rubbing: Cats often roll on their backs and rub against Matatabi-treated items
• Purring: Deep, contented purring often accompanies exposure
• Drooling: Many cats drool when experiencing the euphoric effects
• Playfulness: Sudden bursts of energy and increased activity
• Vocalization: Increased meowing or chattering

The effects typically last 5-30 minutes, after which cats become temporarily immune to the stimulus and may lose interest for 1-2 hours. This temporary desensitization is completely normal and safe.

Benefits of Using Matatabi for Cats

Matatabi offers more than just fun, it supports your cat’s physical and emotional well-being. From encouraging play to easing stress, here are the key benefits that make this natural stimulant a favorite among cats and their humans.

1. Enhanced Playtime and Exercise

Matatabi can transform lazy cats into active players, promoting physical exercise and mental stimulation. This is particularly beneficial for:

• Indoor cats lacking sufficient stimulation
• Overweight cats needing motivation to move
• Senior cats requiring gentle encouragement to stay active

2. Stress Relief and Relaxation

The euphoric effects of Matatabi may help promote calm behavior in some cats, especially during moments of stress or change, making it useful for:

• Multi-cat households with territorial tensions
• Cats adjusting to new environments
• Anxious felines during veterinary visits or travel

3. Training Aid

Use matatabi for cats as a positive reinforcement tool for:

• Encouraging use of scratching posts
• Making carrier training more pleasant
• Redirecting unwanted scratching behavior

4. Dental Health Benefits

Chewing on Matatabi sticks may:

• Support natural plaque removal through gentle abrasion
• Encourage healthy gum interaction via natural chewing motion
• Provide satisfying oral stimulation for curious or active cats

Types of Matatabi Products for Cats

Matatabi comes in a variety of forms to suit every cat’s preference and play style. From chewable matatabi sticks to infused toys and powders, these products deliver the natural stimulation cats crave in fun, engaging ways.

Matatabi Powder

Fine powder made from ground dried gall fruit of the silver vine plant, perfect for sprinkling on toys, scratching posts, or cat beds. This is one of the most potent forms available.

Matatabi Sticks

Natural dried branches from the silver vine plant that cats can chew and play with safely. Matatabi sticks promote dental health by helping remove plaque and massaging gums naturally.

Matatabi-Infused Toys

Commercial cat toys filled with powder or gall fruit for convenient use. These toys are designed for rolling, batting, and chewing activities.

Matatabi Spray

Silvervine extract in liquid form that can be applied to bedding, toys, cat trees, and other surfaces for easy application.

How to Use Matatabi Safely with Your Cat

While Matatabi is a natural and safe stimulant, using it responsibly ensures your cat enjoys all the benefits without overstimulation. Here’s how to introduce it properly and make the most of this enriching experience.

Safety Profile

Silver vine is non-toxic and safe for cats according to veterinary and animal behavior research. It's used in many commercial cat toys, powders, and treats. While Matatabi is generally very safe, some cats may experience:

• Overstimulation: Some cats may become temporarily hyper or show brief aggressive behavior
• Mild gastrointestinal upset: Rare occurrence if cats ingest too much powder or plant matter
• Short-lived effects: Normal temporary loss of interest after 5-30 minutes of exposure

🩺 Consult Your Veterinarian

Before introducing matatabi sticks or any new supplement into your cat’s routine, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian, especially if your cat has existing health conditions, dietary restrictions, or is very young or elderly.

Your vet can:

• Recommend safe dosage and frequency
• Help monitor for any unusual side effects
• Confirm it’s a good fit for your cat’s age, breed, and behavior profile

Matatabi vs. Catnip: Which is Better for Your Cat?

When choosing between Matatabi (Silvervine) and Catnip, scientific research points clearly in favor of Silvervine for a more universal and intense feline response.

Responsiveness Among Cats

• In a controlled study involving 100 domestic cats, 79% responded positively to Silvervine, while only 68% reacted to Catnip (Bol et al., 2017).
• Importantly, about 75% of cats that didn’t respond to Catnip did respond to Silvervine, highlighting its value as an alternative enrichment option.(Bol et al., 2017)

Intensity of Reaction

Cats that do respond to Silvervine tend to have more intense and often longer-lasting reactions than those that respond to Catnip (Bol et al., 2017).

Where to Buy Quality Matatabi Products

To get the full benefits of Matatabi, it's important to choose high-quality, reputable products. Here's where to find trusted sources that offer safe, effective options your cat will love.

Online Retailers

• Amazon – Offers a wide selection of Matatabi products, complete with customer reviews and ratings.
• Pawquet! – We proudly offer premium-grade Matatabi sticks from our trusted supplier. Ideal for chewing and play, they’re a natural and engaging treat your cat will adore.

Give Your Cat the Natural High They Deserve. Try Matatabi Sticks! Buy it here.

What to Look For

• Organic certification when possible
• Fresh, potent products with recent harvest dates
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
• Proper packaging that preserves potency

Storage and Preservation Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping your Matatabi products fresh and effective. Follow these simple tips to preserve their potency and ensure your cat gets the most out of every play session.

Proper Storage Methods

• Airtight containers: Preserve potency and prevent moisture
• Cool, dark places: Avoid direct sunlight and heat
• Freezer storage: For long-term preservation of powder
• Original packaging: Often designed for optimal preservation

Signs of Degraded Matatabi

• Loss of strong, distinctive smell
• Change in color or texture
• Reduced cat interest or response

The Environmental Impact of Matatabi

Matatabi cultivation supports sustainable practices in several meaningful ways. Because the plant naturally thrives in the mountainous regions of China and Japan, its growth contributes to the preservation of native mountain ecosystems. Unlike synthetic pet stimulants, Matatabi has a low environmental footprint, requiring minimal chemical input and energy for processing. Additionally, sourcing Matatabi helps support traditional harvesting communities, preserving cultural knowledge and creating economic opportunities in rural areas where the plant has been used for generations.

Supporting Your Cat's Dental Health with Matatabi

Matatabi (silver vine) can be an excellent way to enrich your cat's environment, providing natural stimulation, stress relief, and entertainment. This non-toxic plant offers an alternative to catnip that works on 70-80% of cats, including many who don't respond to traditional catnip.

The two active compounds, actinidine and dihydronepetalactone, may create stronger, longer-lasting effects than most other cat attractants. If your cat doesn't respond to catnip or you're looking for a more effective option, silver vine offers a safe, natural choice that most cats find irresistible.

Remember to use Matatabi sparingly (2-3 times per week) to prevent desensitization, and always prioritize your cat's safety and wellbeing. With proper use, Matatabi can become a valuable tool in keeping your feline friend happy, active, and mentally stimulated.

References

• Uenoyama, R., Miyazaki, T., & Kuwahara, Y. (2021). The behavioral and neurochemical responses of domestic cats to catnip and silver vine. Science Advances, 7(4), abd9135. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abd9135
• Uenoyama, R., et al. (2023). Assessing the safety and suitability of using silver vine as an olfactory enrichment for cats. iScience, 26(6), 107639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2023.107639 
• Bol, S., et al. (2023). Behavioral differences among domestic cats in response to cat-attracting plants and their volatile compounds. BMC Veterinary Research, 19, Article 59.