How To Dehydrate Catnip In The Oven

Dehydrating Catnip in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a cat owner, you know how much our feline friends love catnip. This herb, which is a member of the mint family, can provide hours of entertainment for your cat. However, store-bought catnip can be expensive, and you may not always know what chemicals or pesticides have been used in its production. That’s why many cat owners choose to grow and dehydrate their own catnip. In this article, we’ll show you how to dehydrate catnip in the oven so you can provide your cat with high-quality, organic catnip without breaking the bank.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following supplies:

• Fresh catnip
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Oven
• Knife or scissors
• Airtight container for storage

Steps to Dehydrate Catnip in the Oven

Follow these simple steps to dehydrate catnip in your oven:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to the lowest temperature setting, usually around 200°F (93°C).
2. Prepare the Catnip: While the oven is preheating, wash the fresh catnip and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove the leaves from the stems and spread them out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Dehydrate the Catnip: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape. Let the catnip dry for 1-2 hours, checking on it periodically to ensure it doesn’t burn. The catnip is ready when it feels dry and crumbly to the touch.
4. Store the Catnip: Once the catnip is fully dried, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container for storage. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when the catnip was dried.

Tips for Dehydrating Catnip

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you dehydrate catnip in the oven:

• Use fresh catnip for the best results. The essential oils that drive cats wild are most potent in fresh catnip.
• Keep an eye on the catnip as it dries to prevent it from burning. The exact drying time will depend on the moisture content of the catnip and your oven’s temperature.
• Store the dried catnip in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency. Properly stored catnip can last for up to a year.

Conclusion

Dehydrating catnip in the oven is a simple and cost-effective way to provide your cat with high-quality, organic catnip. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your cat has access to fresh, potent catnip whenever they need it. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your catnip came from and what went into its production. Give it a try and see how much your cat enjoys the homemade catnip!