 I GREW some catnip in the garden for our moggy Heathcliff but I think he's become addicted. He just rolls around going nuts. Should I get rid of it or is it OK? Cat Bullen, Plymouth A) Cats do go bonkers for catnip. We think it's because a chemical in the plant called nepetalactone stimulates the release of betaendorphins. These 'feel good' chemicals reduce stress, elevate mood and produce a sense of reward, so it's easy to see why Heathcliff enjoys a roll around in the stuff. He's one of about 70 per cent of cats that react to it this way. The other 30 per cent are genetically immune to its effects. The good news is it does cats no harm and the effect wears off after 15 minutes. So let the good times roll. Q) DUE to old age, we had to have our nearly 14-year-old Lhasa Apso, Noodles, put to sleep. As he is my first pet, I'm finding it unbearable dealing with the loss. To come home from work at night and not see him there is heartbreaking. How can I deal with this loss? Chris Matchett, Catterick, Lincs A) I'm so sorry, this is very tough to deal with and I feel for you. I was devastated when I lost my old dogs Sheba and Suki. And now years later I still expect Suki to come running to the gate when I go home. I can assure you it will get easier with time. If you are struggling, Blue Cross has a dedicated team trained in helping people with pet loss. Google their Pet Bereavement Support Service){kind=link}
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Q) I GREW some catnip in the garden for our moggy Heathcliff but I think he’s become addicted.
He just rolls around going nuts.