Reply #60: I did some research after posting that, it seems a solid premise.

[napoleon_in_rags]

My research focused on catnip, known to cause brief feelings of euphoria in cats. The hypothesis predicts that the plant should have some beneficial quality for the health of cats. I found some promising leads, like here:
"Catnip Repels Mosquitoes More Effectively Than DEET"
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2001/08/010828075659.htm

Other sources point out that catnip not only repels mosquitoes (I read malaria effects cats to) but fleas, ticks, and other parasites which are also known to operate as vectors for pathogens that could kill the cat.

Thanks for your the link, I haven't dived into the video yet but will now.