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Have you ever wondered why your cats seem to prefer dried catnip over the fresh stuff? As it turns out, it’s not uncommon for cats to be more interested in dried catnip. If you have an abundance of fresh catnip in your garden, don’t let it go to waste! In this article, we’ll show you a quick and easy way to dry your fresh catnip in just two minutes.
How to Dry Fresh Catnip in the Microwave
Note: Take your time and do not over-dry the catnip to prevent burning.
- Trim your catnip, leaving some leaves on the plant for continued growth.
- Remove the leaves from the stems and place the catnip inside a microwave-safe container with a cover.
- Microwave the catnip in 15 to 30-second intervals, keeping a close eye on it until it is just barely dry.
- Once dry, remove the catnip from the microwave. Take extra care as the catnip can burn easily.
- Allow the catnip to cool before using or storing it.
It only took around two minutes in my microwave to dry the catnip. Although your house may temporarily smell strongly of catnip, the odor will dissipate quickly. Now, you have freshly dried catnip ready to delight your feline friends!
If you’re concerned about drying catnip in the microwave, don’t worry. There are other methods you can try.
Other Methods of Drying Catnip
Drying Catnip in the Oven
If you prefer a slower approach, you can dry fresh catnip in the oven. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spread the fresh catnip evenly on an oven tray or cookie sheet.
- Leave the oven slightly open for ventilation and bake the catnip for approximately ten minutes.
- Check the catnip periodically, flipping it over if necessary, until it is thoroughly dry. Be cautious to avoid scorching the catnip, as it will ruin the flavor.
Air Drying Fresh Catnip
For those with more patience, you can air dry catnip the old-fashioned way. Here’s how:
- Tie a few stems of catnip together, ensuring there is enough space for air circulation.
- Hang the bundled catnip upside down in a dry, dark place such as a closet, garage, or shed.
- Allow the catnip to air dry for several days to a week, depending on your climate.
What to Do with Dried Catnip
Now that you have a stash of dried catnip, you might be wondering how to make the most of it. Here are a few suggestions:
- Sprinkle the dried catnip around a scratching post or cat tower to encourage play and exercise.
- Fill refillable cat toys with the dried catnip, providing endless entertainment for your feline friends.
- Get creative and make your own homemade cat toys using the dried catnip. You don’t even need to know how to sew!
By drying your own catnip, you not only save money but also ensure that your cats are getting the freshest and most potent experience. So, why not give it a try? Your furry companions will thank you!
Last update on 2021-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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