Feline Behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett is the author of a number of award-winning and critically acclaimed books, including Think Like a Cat and Psycho Kitty. The innovative methods described in all her books are based on Pam's unique way of training by actually understanding the way a cat thinks. She makes numerous television appearances including CNN, Fox News Channel, and National Geographic specials, as well as being a popular guest on many nationally syndicated radio programs. She is now considered to be one of the leading experts on feline behavior.

Q: I have two cats now and have always had cats growing up. I've always given my cats catnip, usually sprinkling it on the scratching post. The little cat I just adopted tries to eat it instead of rub around in it like all the rest of the cats I have had. Is this normal, and does it harm the kitten in anyway to eat it?

A: This is very normal behavior. It's not unusual for a cat to roll in, lick, sniff, or eat catnip. You mentioned that your cat is a kitten, so just make sure he's at least close to one year old before attempting to give him catnip. Kittens don't respond to catnip when they're very young and they don't really need it anyway, because they have a natural supply of kitten energy.

One thing you can do with a cat who just likes to eat catnip is to offer it in a sock. Put some dried catnip inside a clean sock and then tie a knot at the top. Rub the sock between your hands to release the oil in the dried herb, and then offer it to your cat. This is a great homemade toy and an easy one to keep clean! Just put in fresh catnip when the sock comes out of the laundry.