Cats Choose Food by Smell, Vet Explains

Many cat owners are familiar with their feline companions' finicky eating habits. Whether it's a strict preference for a specific brand or a sudden aversion to a once-loved meal, picky eating is a common trait. Dr. Wafaa Abdul Washeff, a veterinarian and manager at Vetico Animal Clinic, notes that this selectivity is deeply rooted in a cat's keen sense of smell.

Cats rely heavily on scent to assess their food. "The sense of smell is very important for cats when it comes to food," Dr. Wafaa explains. "They can detect even slight changes in the smell of food due to spoilage, ingredient alterations, or even the packaging."

This sensitivity means that factors beyond taste play a significant role. The freshness of the food, the quality of its ingredients, and how it's stored can all impact a cat's appetite. Even subtle changes in the manufacturing process or the introduction of new ingredients can trigger a cat's discerning palate, leading them to reject a meal they previously enjoyed.

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The sense of smell is very important for cats when it comes to food. They can detect even slight changes in the smell of food due to spoilage, ingredient alterations, or even the packaging.