What Do Cats Do When They Smell Something Gross? Unraveling the Feline Facial Expression
When cats encounter an unpleasant odor, they often exhibit a distinctive facial expression known as the Flehmen response, characterized by an open mouth, curled upper lip, and wrinkled nose, all in an attempt to better analyze the scent; ultimately, what cats do when they smell something gross is to enhance the way they perceive and process the offensive odor.
Understanding the Feline Nose and Olfactory System
Cats possess a remarkable sense of smell, far surpassing that of humans. Their nasal cavity is equipped with millions of olfactory receptor cells, enabling them to detect a wide range of odors. This heightened sensitivity plays a crucial role in their survival, helping them identify prey, locate mates, and navigate their environment. But, what do cats do when they smell something gross relative to these complex capabilities?
- Olfactory Receptor Cells: These specialized cells detect odor molecules in the air.
- Olfactory Bulb: This brain structure processes information from the receptor cells.
- Vomeronasal Organ (VNO): Also known as Jacobson’s organ, it detects pheromones and other chemical signals.
The Flehmen Response: A Closer Look
The Flehmen response is the key to understanding what cats do when they smell something gross. This unique behavior involves curling the upper lip, opening the mouth slightly, and wrinkling the nose, creating a rather comical expression. This posture isn’t just a funny face; it’s a deliberate action that allows the cat to draw the scent molecules into their vomeronasal organ (VNO).
The VNO is located in the roof of the mouth and is connected to the nasal cavity. By performing the Flehmen response, cats bypass the normal olfactory pathways and direct the scent directly to the VNO, providing a more detailed analysis of the odor. It’s worth knowing that many animals have this capability, not just cats.
- Curled Upper Lip: Exposes the openings to the VNO.
- Open Mouth: Facilitates airflow to the VNO.
- Wrinkled Nose: Helps concentrate the scent molecules.
Why Do Cats React This Way to Gross Smells?
The Flehmen response isn’t solely triggered by gross smells; it’s also used to investigate interesting or novel scents, especially those containing pheromones. However, when a cat smells something truly unpleasant, this response is heightened, perhaps as a way to better identify the source of the odor and avoid it in the future. What cats do when they smell something gross is, in a sense, an act of self-preservation.
The sensitivity of a cat’s olfactory system is highly attuned. They are generally more sensitive to bitter and sour smells than sweet or salty. Different chemicals will evoke different responses.
Beyond the Flehmen: Other Reactions to Unpleasant Odors
While the Flehmen response is the most distinctive reaction, cats may exhibit other behaviors when confronted with a gross smell. These can include:
- Sneezing or Coughing: To expel the irritant from their nasal passages.
- Shaking Their Head: A reflexive response to dislodge the offending scent.
- Avoiding the Area: Moving away from the source of the odor.
- Lip Licking: A gesture that may show stress/discomfort.
- Dilated pupils: Indicates discomfort.
- Vocalization: Hissing or growling.
Common Culprits: What Smells Do Cats Find Offensive?
Cats have individual preferences and sensitivities, but some odors are almost universally disliked. Understanding these aversions can help cat owners create a more pleasant environment for their feline companions.
| Odor | Reason |
|---|---|
| —————— | ———————————————————————————– |
| Citrus Fruits | Contains compounds that cats find irritating. |
| Vinegar | The strong, acidic smell is generally repulsive. |
| Mothballs | Contain chemicals toxic to cats and have a very pungent scent. |
| Pine Cleaner | Strong chemical scents used in many cleaning products. |
| Banana | Many believe it’s related to compounds similar to paint thinner. |
| Some Essential Oils | Such as tea tree or lavender, can be toxic or irritating. |
How to Minimize Exposure to Offensive Smells
Creating a cat-friendly environment involves minimizing exposure to odors they find offensive. Here are some tips:
- Choose Cat-Friendly Cleaning Products: Opt for unscented or natural cleaners.
- Ventilate Your Home: Ensure good air circulation to dissipate strong odors.
- Avoid Using Strong Perfumes or Air Fresheners: Cats are highly sensitive to artificial fragrances.
- Properly Dispose of Waste: Keep litter boxes clean and empty trash cans regularly.
- Identify and Remove Offensive Items: If you notice your cat consistently reacting negatively to a particular smell, try to eliminate the source.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What triggers the Flehmen response in cats?
The Flehmen response is triggered by novel or interesting scents, especially those containing pheromones or other chemical signals. It’s not just about gross smells; cats use it to gather information about their environment and other cats.
Is the Flehmen response unique to cats?
No, the Flehmen response is not unique to cats. It is observed in many other mammals, including horses, cattle, and goats. These animals also use the VNO to analyze scents more effectively.
Why do cats open their mouths when they smell something?
Opening their mouth during the Flehmen response allows them to direct the scent molecules towards the vomeronasal organ in the roof of their mouth. This is an essential step in the scent analysis process.
Can cats taste with their noses?
While cats don’t taste with their noses in the same way humans do, the VNO allows them to detect chemical signals that can provide information about the composition of a substance.
Are all cats equally sensitive to smells?
No, individual cats may have different sensitivities to smells. Factors such as breed, age, and overall health can influence a cat’s olfactory abilities.
What happens if a cat is exposed to a toxic smell?
Exposure to toxic smells can cause a range of symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, vomiting, and respiratory distress. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to a toxic substance, seek veterinary care immediately.
How can I tell if my cat dislikes a particular smell?
Signs that your cat dislikes a smell include sneezing, coughing, shaking their head, avoiding the area, and displaying the Flehmen response. Monitor your cat’s behavior and remove any offending odors.
Is it possible to train a cat to tolerate certain smells?
While it’s difficult to completely change a cat’s preferences, gradual exposure to mild versions of certain smells may help them become less reactive. However, never force a cat to endure an unpleasant odor.
Do kittens have the same sense of smell as adult cats?
Kittens develop their sense of smell gradually. While they can detect odors from a young age, their olfactory abilities are not fully developed until they reach adulthood.
Why do cats smell each other’s butts?
Smelling another cat’s rear end is a common form of social communication. The anal glands release pheromones that provide information about the cat’s identity, health, and reproductive status.
What is the evolutionary purpose of the Flehmen response?
The Flehmen response is believed to have evolved to enhance the detection of pheromones, which play a crucial role in mating and social behavior.
What do cats do when they smell something gross when it is directly on their body?
If a cat gets a gross smell on its fur, the reaction goes beyond the Flehmen response. They will likely begin intensely grooming to remove the offending substance, potentially followed by more intense physical reactions like shaking or hiding if the smell is extremely unpleasant. This demonstrates that what cats do when they smell something gross directly impacting them involves both scent analysis and direct action to eliminate the irritant.