What is the thing with Cat Nip?

[doravera]

I see Catnip being sold in various places, see how cats are supposed to find it irrisistable...

My kittens are completely...unaffected by it...

Should I bother?

 

[pinkman]

How old are your kittens? Catnip won't effect young kittens, I have heard. It also really depends on the cat, too. Individuals, they are!

Now, my three year old does not react to catnip. Nor does she react to valerian, silvervine, and honeysuckle. I have another kitten who is five months old. I haven't tried it yet - but whatever toys that have nip in them, he seems to not react. Then again, he may just be too young!