Cat is one of South Africa’s more recent “drug” it is a cheap stimulant alternative to cocaine or ecstasy, and is commonly found in the club/party scene in South Africa. Cat and has a number of psychoactive, stimulant properties as it is derived from Methcathinone. Cat is relatively easy to manufacture, and tolerance can develop relatively quickly. Overtime both physical and psychological dependence may occur that in many cases will require professional help and guidance.

Cat addiction begins like most addictions, in a progressive process. The initial thrill and excitement of stimulants like Cat and cocaine fit into the context of the social or party cultures, however, for people that often get addicted to stimulants, there are often deeper-seated emotions that the drug serves as a replacement. Stimulants like CAT and cocaine often provide users a “high” or a sense of connection that temporarily restores and amplifies self-esteem and validation orientated feelings in the state of euphoria.

How it affects you

The effects of CAT intoxication are similar to those of produced by amphetamines, crack, and cocaine.

These effects last 4-6 hours and can include

1. Feelings of euphoria
2. Increased alertness
3. Increased heart rate
4. Rapid breathing
5. Dilated pupils

Negative effects of Cat can include

1. Anxiety
2. Convulsions
3. Delusions
4. Fever
5. Hallucinations
6. Headaches
7. Insomnia
8. Irregular heart rate
9. Muscle twitching
10. Paranoia
11. Restlessness
12. Tremors

Long-term effects of using Cat

1. Paranoia
2. Hallucinations
3. Anxiety followed by depression
4. Tremors and convulsions
5. Anorexia, malnutrition, and weight loss
6. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
7. Stomach pains
8. Nausea
9. Nose bleeds and eventual
10. Destruction of nasal tissue
11. Elevated blood pressure
12. Elevated heart rate
13. Body aches
14. Permanent brain damage
15. Death

Withdrawal symptoms from Cat

Withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of cocaine, lasting from two to three weeks or longer depending on the extent of use. Symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Agitation
• Hypersomnia (excessive sleeping)
• Increased appetite
• Agitation and aggression from extreme psychological cravings for the drug

The rollercoaster of Cat addiction

Active Cat addiction begins to erode many aspects of your life. Personal relationships deteriorate and “friendships” begin to involve the use cycle. The psychological influence that Cat addiction has is incredibly distressing and disruptive internally and externally as you become a completely different person to the one you were before you started with the substance.

What to expect in recovery

Recovery means getting a foothold on all aspects of your life and starting over with a clean slate. It takes time to notice and appreciate the  number of positive changes in your life:

• Your moods will lighten and become more regular  
• Your ability to cope with high-pressure situations will enhance
• Interactions with people will become better

There is no doubt that recovery is a challenging journey but the benefits of living life without being dependent on a substance far outweighs being stuck in a cycle active addiction. If you or someone you care about has a problem with CAT, we are experienced in treating recovery from this addiction. Contact us by calling the number at the top of the page.