I opened the velcro strip on the small catnip toy. I carefully filled the empty space with catnip, gently crushing the catnip just before it left my fingers. I thoughtfully spread the lightly broken catnip into the tiny areas of the animal shaped toy. I sealed the velcro strip thoroughly and repeatedly. I put the catnip toy in front of sweet, gentle Buttercup.

Buttercup snatched the toy and violently flipped it in the air. On the second toss, the entire catnip filling erupted with volcanic force. Catnip sprinkles decorated the bed, the floor and the cat.

The next day, I poured the catnip in a small pile directly on the cat’s blanket.