Decoding the popcorn scent mystery. How the chemistry of cats affect our noses
Our sense of smell is a paramount sensory organ, allowing us to differentiate aromas. While some smells are delightful and others less so, the ones associated with our pets are typically comforting. This sentiment, cat owners in particular, will likely echo as they often note the pleasant odor of their pets.
9:01 PM EST, January 18, 2024
The unique scent of cats
Many individuals have undoubtedly pondered the characteristic feline fragrance at some point. Thanks to chemistry, we now understand the source of these distinct scents. Domestic and big cats, such as tigers or jaguars, emit a chemical compound known as 2-AP, which smells like fresh popcorn under lab conditions. This does not, however, mean that your pet will have the same scent.
Domestic cats produce 2-AP in smaller amounts, providing an anti-stress impact on humans. Furthermore, every cat has nine scent glands, and some can emit odors that humans find pleasing. Sterilized and neutered cats often exhibit a fruity scent (as a result of 4-thio-4-methylpentane-2-), whereas unneutered cats may have a nutty aroma.
What does an unpleasant cat odor indicate?
Considering that cat fur readily absorbs smells from its surroundings, it's unsurprising that cats often smell like freshly mown grass or perfume. However, they can also have less pleasant odors such as mustiness or urine, and their breath might also be off-putting.
If your cat is clean but you detect musty or urine odors from them, it could indicate sickness. In such cases, it's advisable to consult a vet promptly to ascertain your pet's health. If the unpleasant odor originates from the mouth, it could be food-related, but not always. An undesired smell may also be a symptom of diabetes.
