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 humansThanks to the millions of olfactory receptors in their nose and a special organ, the vomeronasal or Jacobson's organ, located in the palate. Through it 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 Each scent has a direct impact on the cat's well-beingAn 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. That's why it's so important to know What smells do 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... They hunt imaginary animals when a smell is particularly stimulating to them.
However, figuring out which smells cats like can be a little tricky. And it's also useful to know which smells cats hate., above all because Each cat has its own preferencesEven so, there are several scents that we can be fairly sure they will enjoy and that, used in moderation, can become an excellent tool for environmental enrichment.
Catnip
Cat grass or catnip, whose scientific name is Nepeta Qatari, is probably the most famous and attractive smell for many felinesIt is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Lamiaceae family, related to mint, which has a fairly rapid growth rate, reaching a height of about 40 cm. Due to its size, it can be kept in a pot throughout its life, in a sunny exposure.
What makes it so irresistible is an aromatic oil it secretes, whose main ingredient is the terpenoid nepetalactoneThis 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 tend to behave in a very curious way.They roll on the floor, hunt imaginary animals, rub against the plant, meow, purr more than usual, and become very friendly and playful.
This effect is a kind of 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: it is believed that Sensitivity to catnip is hereditary And about a third of cats show no reaction. You can offer it in a pot, in dried leaves inside toys, or sprinkled on scratching posts and blankets, always in moderate amounts to avoid overstimulation.
Basil
Basil, known by the scientific name Ocimum basilicumIt is a perennial herb widely used in cooking, but also may be attractive to many cats Thanks to its fresh, slightly minty aroma. It reaches a height of between 30 and 50 cm and produces spikes with tubular flowers that are white or violet in color.
It can be had both in the sun and in semi-shade, in the garden or in a pot, so Your cats will be able to enjoy its scent whether they are at home or outside.Because it belongs to the same family as catnip, it shares certain aromatic compounds that They stimulate curiosity and activity of some felines. Ideally, allow the cat to smell and rub against the plant, making sure it doesn't ingest too much and taking precautions to prevent over-ingestion. prevent your cat from damaging your plants.
Honeysuckle
The honeysuckle, also known as chupamiel or goat's leg and whose scientific name is Lonicera caprifolium, is a very popular climbing shrub in gardens. It has evergreen leaves and blooms during spring, giving off a sweet aroma that Cats usually love it.
Unlike catnip, the main effect of honeysuckle is rather calming and relaxingMany cats appear calm 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 should be exercised with the berries or fruits. They are very harmful to furry friends. 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 is important to consult a doctor. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing any new plants or essences into the home.
Olive
The olive tree is an evergreen tree whose scientific name is Olea europaeaIt reaches several meters in height and is very long-lived. Beyond its importance in the human diet, this tree It 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 response in many felines similar to that caused by catnip: some become more active, play more, rub against branches, bite leaves, or even exhibit behaviors similar to those of the mating season (meows, rolling on the floor, more activity).
Thus, You can use the branches as an occasional toyAlways supervise your cat to prevent them from ingesting large quantities. If you can't find them, there are also essential oils or olive extracts prepared for home use that you can spray in different areas to stimulate your feline friends without direct exposure to 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 that it is always advisable to introduce any new smell little by little and observing its 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 create a more stimulating home and at the same time calm for them, alternating safe plantstoys impregnated with essences suitable for felines, furniture and structures for cats and corners where their own scent and that of their human family, which is the one they love the most, is always present. confidence. It provides them.
