Matatabi for Cats: What It Is and Why Cats Love It
If you have never come across matatabi before, there is nothing particularly remarkable about it at first glance. It looks like an ordinary twig. For many cats, however, it is considerably more interesting.
Matatabi is a natural alternative to the better-known catnip. Cats are attracted to its scent and may sniff, lick, hold or chew it. This is why matatabi branches are commonly used as natural chew sticks for cats.
But what exactly is matatabi, and why do cats react to it?
What is matatabi?
Matatabi is silver vine (Actinidia polygama), a plant native to East Asia. It is commonly known in English simply as silver vine.
Like catnip, it contains compounds that some cats find highly attractive. Reactions vary – from sniffing and licking to rubbing, active play and chewing.
And just like with catnip, every cat reacts a little differently.
Matatabi or catnip?
Matatabi is sometimes referred to as Japanese catnip, but it is actually a different plant.
This can make it particularly interesting for cats that show little interest in ordinary catnip. Some cats may respond to silver vine even when catnip leaves them completely unimpressed.
That does not mean every cat will be interested in matatabi. The simplest way to find out is to let your cat try it.
Why do cats chew matatabi sticks?
Silver vine branches have a natural scent and texture that cats can explore in their own way. They may hold the stick between their paws, lick it or simply chew it.
This is why you may see them described as matatabi sticks, silver vine sticks or cat chew sticks. The principle is the same: your cat gets a natural twig to investigate and chew.
This can also be useful for cats that tend to chew other things around the home. A matatabi stick gives them something more appropriate towards which that behaviour can be redirected.
It is no guarantee that your cat will suddenly lose interest in the corner of your favourite chair. But you can at least offer them a better option.
What about your cat's teeth?
Chewing the stick creates mechanical contact with the teeth and gums. Matatabi can therefore also serve as a simple addition to your cat's regular dental care.
It does not replace tooth brushing, dental checks or veterinary care. It is primarily a natural chew toy with this practical benefit on the side.
How should you give matatabi to your cat?
Simply give them the stick and let them decide.
Some cats will start chewing immediately. Others may sniff it several times first, while some may ignore it altogether. There is no need to force them to play with it.
Check the stick regularly while your cat is using it. Once it becomes heavily chewed or begins to break apart, replace it with a new one.
Matatabi at Lilly’s
This simple idea is exactly what Whisk – a natural matatabi stick for cats is based on. Your cat can sniff it, hold it between their paws and chew it.
It is a very simple cat toy: a small stick of matatabi and a cat that gets to decide what to do with it.
And if Whisk becomes a favourite, it is also available as a multipack.