Nepetalactone. Molecular model of the drug nepetalactone (C10.H14.O2). This organic compound first isolated from the plant catnip acts as a cat attractant. Herbalists have used catnip for many centuries as a treatment for colic, headache, fever, toothache, colds, and spasms. Atoms are represented as spheres and are colour-coded: carbon (grey), hydrogen (white) and oxygen (red). Illustration.