You’ve heard of catnip. But have you met silvervine?

This climbing plant from the misty mountains of Japan and China has been delighting cats (and their people) for centuries. And unlike catnip, which some cats couldn’t care less about, silvervine offers a richer, more universally loved sensory experience. It’s natural, effective, and — when freshly ground — absolutely magical.

At Munchiecat, we take silvervine to the next level: freshly ground from the fruit, in small batches, with zero fillers. Because your cat deserves the good stuff.

So, What Is Silvervine?

Silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a member of the kiwi family, known for its striking silver leaves and naturally occurring compounds that trigger joyful, euphoric behavior in cats. Think: body rolls, blissed-out purring, energetic zoomies, or deep, zen-like chill.

While catnip’s active ingredient is nepetalactone, silvervine contains two powerful compounds:

• Actinidine

• Dihydroactinidiolide

This dynamic duo makes silvervine more potent than catnip — and effective for a wider range of cats. In fact, studies show that up to 80% of cats respond to silvervine, compared to about 50% for catnip.

A Little History

Silvervine has been used in Japanese culture for centuries — both for its calming effects on humans and its uncanny ability to enchant cats. Historical scrolls from the Edo period even depict mice trying to distract cats with silvervine (spoiler: it didn’t work, but it was worth a try).

Today, silvervine is finally getting the attention it deserves in the West — and our cats are better for it.

Why Fruit Matters

Not all silvervine is created equal. While many products use a blend of leaves and stems, the real magic lives in the fruit — where the concentration of actinidine is highest. That’s why we only use 100% fruit in our silvervine powder.

No dusty mixes. No fillers. Just pure, freshly ground delight.

How We Craft It (And Why It Matters)

We grind our silvervine by hand, in small batches, at home. This preserves its delicate aroma and ensures your cat is getting the freshest possible product — not something that’s been sitting on a warehouse shelf for months.

Every jar is:

• Made from whole fruit

• 100% natural — no additives, preservatives, or chemicals

• Ground to order for optimal potency and freshness

How to Use Silvervine with Your Cat

Ready to turn your living room into a feline spa day? Here are a few playful ways to incorporate silvervine into your cat’s routine:

• Dust it on a favorite toy for instant playtime magic

• Sprinkle it on a scratching post to redirect scratching in the most delightful way

• Add it to a cozy blanket or bed to create a calming chill zone

• Use it as a training tool, encouraging cats toward a desired space (like that beautiful new cat bed they keep ignoring)

Start with a small amount and observe — some cats go wild, others melt into a puddle of purrs. Each reaction is unique (and endlessly entertaining).

What to Expect: Adorable Reactions May Include...

• Playfulness: Chasing, batting, bunny-kicking — you name it

• Rolling and rubbing: On the floor, on toys, even on you

• Calm curiosity: A gentle sniff, followed by content loafing

• Mild obsession: Yes, they’ll remember where you stored it

The effects typically last 5–30 minutes, and can be enjoyed a few times a week.

The Munchiecat Difference

Choosing our silvervine isn’t just a treat for your cat — it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, care, and quality. When you shop with us, you’re supporting:

• A small, woman-owned business

• Thoughtfully designed, handmade products

• A deep love for cats and their humans

Final Thoughts

Silvervine is more than a novelty — it’s a natural, science-backed way to bring joy, relaxation, and enrichment into your cat’s life. Whether you’re gifting it or indulging your own fur baby, our handcrafted silvervine is an easy way to add a little magic to the everyday.

Thanks for supporting our small shop — and for giving your cat a treat that’s as special as they are.