Cats have a much more developed sense of smell than we do , capable of detecting aromatic nuances that go completely unnoticed by humans. It is estimated that their sense of smell can be up to 14 times more sensitive than that of humans , thanks to the millions of olfactory receptors in their noses and a special organ, the vomeronasal organ or Jacobson's organ, located in the roof of their mouth. Through this organ, they detect pheromones and chemical substances that help them communicate, recognize other individuals, choose food, and assess whether a place is safe.
At home, this means that every scent has a direct impact on a cat's well-being . An environment with pleasant and appropriate aromas can promote relaxation, play, and curiosity; conversely, a very strong perfume or an artificial air freshener can be overwhelming and stressful for them. That's why it's so important to know what scents cats like and how we can use them to enrich their environment without putting their health at risk.
Cats are very special. Sometimes they exhibit behaviors that are very similar to our own. When it comes to smells, it's wonderful to see them approach a flower with an intense aroma and bring it to their nose with their paw. They might also rub against a plant, roll on the floor, meow insistently, or even seem to hunt imaginary animals when a scent is particularly stimulating for them.
However, figuring out which smells cats like can be a bit tricky, and it's also helpful to know which smells cats dislike , especially since every cat has its own preferences . Even so, there are several scents we can be fairly certain they'll enjoy, and which, used in moderation, can become an excellent environmental enrichment tool.
Catnip
Catnip, or Nepeta cataria , is probably the most famous and appealing scent for many felines . It's a perennial herbaceous plant from the Lamiaceae family, related to mint, and grows quite quickly, reaching a height of about 40 cm. Because of its size, it can be kept in a pot throughout its life in a sunny location.
What makes it so irresistible is an aromatic oil it secretes, whose main ingredient is the terpenoid nepetalactone . This compound stimulates specific receptors in the cat's nose and vomeronasal organ and can mimic the structure of certain feline pheromones related to mating and play behaviors. When cats smell or ingest it, they often behave in a very curious way : they roll on the ground, chase imaginary animals, rub against the plant, meow, purr more than usual, and become very friendly and playful.
This effect is a harmless "high" that usually lasts between 5 and 15 minutes, after which the cat loses interest for a while. Not all felines respond the same way: catnip sensitivity is believed to be hereditary , and around a third of cats show no reaction. You can offer it in a pot, as dried leaves inside toys, or sprinkled on scratching posts and blankets, always in moderate amounts to avoid overstimulation.
Basil
Basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum , is a perennial herb widely used in cooking, but it can also be attractive to many cats thanks to its fresh, slightly minty aroma. It grows to a height of 30 to 50 cm and produces spikes of tubular flowers that are white or purplish in color.
It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, in the garden or in a pot, so your cats can enjoy its aroma whether they're indoors or outdoors . Belonging to the same family as catnip, it shares certain aromatic compounds that stimulate the curiosity and activity of some felines. Ideally, allow your cat to smell and rub against the plant, while ensuring they don't ingest too much and taking precautions to prevent them from damaging your plants.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle, also known as honeysuckle or goat's foot, and whose scientific name is Lonicera caprifolium , is a climbing shrub very popular in gardens. It has evergreen leaves and blooms during the spring , giving off a sweet aroma that cats often find appealing.
Unlike catnip, honeysuckle's primary effect is calming and relaxing . Many cats appear tranquil and content when smelling its flowers, so its essential oil is sometimes used to help reduce mild stress, restlessness, or sleep difficulties. However, extreme caution must be exercised with the berries or fruit. They are very harmful to cats, as they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
For this reason, the safest option is to use preparations specifically formulated for felines or highly diluted essential oils applied to the environment, never orally or on the skin. Even so, if in doubt, it's always important to consult a veterinarian before introducing any new plant or essential oil into your home.
Olive
The olive tree is an evergreen tree whose scientific name is Olea europaea . It reaches several meters in height and is very long-lived. Beyond its importance in the human diet, this tree has a very particular effect on cats.
The leaves of this plant contain oleuropein , a phenolic compound also found in green olives and tree bark. This substance triggers a catnip-like response in many cats: some become more active, play more, rub against branches, bite the leaves, or even exhibit behaviors similar to those seen during mating season (meowing, rolling on the ground, increased activity).
You can use the branches as an occasional toy , always supervising your cat to prevent them from ingesting large quantities. If you can't find branches, there are also essential oils or olive extracts available for home use that you can spray in different areas to stimulate your feline friends without them having direct contact with the plant.
Other smells that cats usually like
Besides catnip, basil, honeysuckle, and olive, there are other natural scents that many cats find pleasant and that can help enrich their environment. It's important to remember that not all cats react the same way , and it's always best to introduce any new scent gradually while observing their behavior.
- LavenderSome cats are attracted to its mild scent and may rub against the plant or scented fabrics. In small amounts, it can have an environmental effect. Relaxing effectHowever, the cat should not be allowed to ingest the plant or the essential oil.
- ThymeIt is one of the aromatic plants that many cats find pleasant. Its scent can help... reduce anxiety It has been traditionally used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Ideally, it should only be offered as a scent, without the cat consuming it regularly.
- Spearmint and mintThey belong to the same family as catnip and basil. Their fragrance can stimulate mental activity and playHowever, some species of mint can be irritating or slightly toxic if ingested in excess, so it is best to use them only as a very mild room fragrance.
- Soft floral aromasMany cats are attracted to the scent of flowers like roses, daisies, or some lilies. However, several of these plants They are toxic if ingested.Therefore, it is more prudent to use specific essences for safe aromatherapy instead of leaving plants within the animal's reach; it is advisable to consult What things don't cats like?.
- Non-citrus fruity aromasScents like strawberry, peach, or watermelon can pique the curiosity of some cats. They sometimes accept small pieces as a treat, but always in small amounts and avoiding citrus fruits, whose scent they often dislike. reject strongly.
- Scent of their humansFor many felines, one of their favorite scents is that of the people they live with. The smell of clothesthe bed or blankets transmit security and belonging to the groupThat's why so many cats sleep on used clothes or rub against our hands and legs to mix their scent with ours.
Knowing all these smells that cats usually like, it is possible to create a more stimulating and at the same time calm home for them, alternating safe plants , toys impregnated with essences suitable for felines , furniture and structures for cats and corners where their own smell and that of their human family is always present, which is the one that gives them the most confidence.
