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What Your Cat Really Wants to Eat: Inside the Science of Feline Flavor Preferences

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Rithani

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4 min read

03 Aug, 2024

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Cats are known for being picky eaters. What if we could create their food based on what they really like?


Recent research published in the ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry sheds light on this question.



Image Source: Pexels


A study led by Shiqing Song and colleagues explored which flavor compounds cats prefer by using a panel of feline taste-testers to evaluate various chicken-liver-based sprays.


The researchers discovered that cats showed a strong preference for sprays containing more free amino acids, which imparted richer, savory, and fatty flavors to their kibble.


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Unlike humans, cats have a heightened sense of smell and a preference for umami (savory) flavors. They are less responsive to sweetness, making the scent and taste of their food crucial for their enjoyment.


In their study, the team created four different food attractants by homogenizing and heat-treating chicken livers, then breaking down the proteins with enzymes.


They identified over 50 distinct flavor compounds, ranging from tropical and floral to more unusual notes like sweaty and rubbery. The attractants were then tested on commercial cat food coated with chicken fat.


Image Source: Pexels


The results revealed that cats preferred and consumed more food sprayed with the attractants, particularly those with proteins broken down into free amino acids.


These compounds enhance aroma and flavor through the Maillard reaction, which likely created appealing mushroom and fatty flavors. Foods with fewer such compounds, often featuring acidic or sweet notes, were less favored.


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Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into feline taste preferences and underscores the importance of understanding what appeals to our pets. By identifying and incorporating the specific flavor compounds that cats find irresistible, pet food manufacturers can create more enticing and satisfying options. This research not only helps in crafting better cat food but also improves the overall feeding experience for our finicky feline friends.

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