The Effects of the Drug Cat
Cat is a highly addictive stimulant associated with serious physical, psychological and behavioural consequences. Understanding its effects, overdose risks and treatment options can help individuals and families take the first step towards recovery.
Cat addiction can quickly affect a person's physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships and ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Crossroads Recovery Centre provides structured and compassionate drug rehabilitation for people struggling with stimulant dependency, including support through detoxification, therapy and long-term recovery planning.
Professional treatment is available through the Johannesburg Treatment Centre and Pretoria Treatment Centre. Depending on the individual's needs, treatment may include the structured residential recovery programme or continued support through the outpatient programme. A confidential assessment can help determine the most appropriate level of care.
Understanding Cat and Its Use in South Africa
Cat is one of the most commonly abused drugs in South Africa. Due to its highly addictive composition and its popularity as a drug used in tandem with downers, at Crossroads Recovery Centres we have a vast amount of experience with facilitating the detox process from this potent substance. This brief guide will familiarise you with what the drug cat is and how addicts are detoxed from it.
Methcathinone (also known as mephedrone) is an addictive psychoactive substance, and abuse of this drug is rapidly increasing in South Africa. A common street name for Methcathinone is ‘CAT’, and its use is mostly associated with the club and rave scenes. There is no medical or pharmaceutical use for this substance and it is mainly produced in illicit ‘Cat labs’, for recreational purposes. According to reports there has been an increase in the use of the drug cat since 2010.
It is often used as a substitute for other stimulants such as cocaine and ecstasy. Cat is not to be confused with the Khat plant, the leaves of which are chewed as a central nervous system stimulant.
How Long Can the Effects of Cat Last?
The effects of Cat have been described as being very similar to that of cocaine. Unlike cocaine, the ‘high’ effect can last up to six hours, making this a very popular recreational drug. Overdose can occur with any quantity of drug used, and the user is always at risk. Overdose may cause seizures, an increase in body temperature, respiratory failure, coma, and/or death.
Common Side-Effects of Cat
Common side-effects include :
Mood and Confidence
- Intense feelings of euphoria
- Increased confidence
- Feelings of love or empathy towards others
Energy and Behaviour
- Increased energy
- Sociability and talkativeness
Physical Effects
- Loss of appetite
- Dilated pupils
Take the First Step Towards Recovery
Cat addiction can become dangerous and difficult to manage without professional support. Crossroads Recovery Centre provides confidential assessment, structured detox support and rehabilitation services at treatment centres in Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Adverse Effects of Cat
Adverse effects of Cat include:
Immediate Physical Effects
- Nausea
- Damage to the nasal cavities
- Nosebleeds
- Involuntary teeth grinding
- Blurred vision
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
Psychological and Cognitive Effects
- Hallucinations
- Mental confusion
- Muddled speech
- The loss of the ability to make rational decisions
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Memory loss
Psychosis and Behavioural Effects
- Amphetamine psychosis
- Paranoid delusions
- Suspicion
- Violent behaviour
Long-Term Organ Damage
- Liver, kidney, lung and cardiovascular damage with prolonged use
- Symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease from injecting the drug
Life-Threatening Risks
- Greater risk of stroke, coma or death resulting from a blood pressure increase and an irregular cardiac rate
Getting Help for Cat Addiction
If you or a loved one needs assistance an addiction to Cat, know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one but getting yourself or your loved one the best possible care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre, provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope and it’s only a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.
Structured Treatment and Ongoing Support
Crossroads Recovery Centre provides professional support for people who need help overcoming Cat and other forms of substance dependency. Treatment can include detoxification support, individual and group therapy, relapse prevention and ongoing recovery guidance through the programme.
People who require treatment while continuing with certain work, family or personal responsibilities may also discuss the outpatient programme with the admissions team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Addiction
Below are answers to common questions about the drug Cat, its effects, overdose risks and treatment options in South Africa.
1. What is the drug Cat?
The drug Cat is a psychoactive stimulant known as methcathinone, often used recreationally in South Africa. It produces euphoric and energetic effects but is highly addictive.
2. How long do the effects of Cat last?
The effects of Cat can last up to six hours, which is longer than cocaine and makes it popular in party and club scenes.
3. What are the common side effects of using Cat?
Common side effects include increased energy, loss of appetite, dilated pupils, euphoria, and sociability, but negative effects can occur even with small amounts.
4. Can Cat cause an overdose?
Yes, overdose is possible with any amount of Cat. Symptoms may include seizures, respiratory failure, high body temperature, coma, or death.
5. How does Cat affect the brain and body?
Cat use can lead to memory loss, depression, paranoia, hallucinations, and long-term organ damage, including to the liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart.
6. Is Cat the same as Khat?
No, Cat is a synthetic stimulant called methcathinone, while Khat is a natural plant whose leaves are chewed for a mild stimulant effect.
7. What are the signs of Cat addiction?
Signs include compulsive use, cravings, insomnia, irrational decisions, violent behaviour, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop.
8. Where can someone get help for Cat addiction in South Africa?
Specialised treatment is available at rehabilitation centres such as Crossroads Recovery Centre, which offers detox and recovery programmes.
Get in Touch. Let Us Help
You do not have to face Cat addiction alone. Speak confidentially with the Crossroads Recovery Centre team about assessment, detoxification, rehabilitation and ongoing recovery support in Johannesburg and Pretoria.
