Cats are fascinating animals, celebrated for their adorable looks and quirky habits, such as their penchant for knocking items off tables or their headbutting form of affection.
But there’s a lot more to uncover (and adore!) about these enigmatic companions. Here are some intriguing facts and lesser-known secrets about cats.
1. Cats Have Fewer Taste Buds Than Humans or Dogs
Cats only have around 473 taste buds, which is significantly less than humans (we boast 9,000) or dogs (with 1,700). They can detect savory, salty, bitter, and sour tastes, but they lack the ability to enjoy sweet flavors.
Don’t feel bad for your feline friend’s inability to savor dessert—they’re obligate carnivores and are perfectly content sticking to a diet of meat.
2. Cats Are Immune to Cavities
While cats don’t develop cavities like humans, that doesn’t mean their teeth are problem-free. By the age of four, as many as 90% of cats experience some form of dental disease.
Instead of cavities, cats are prone to resorptive lesions, where the dentin erodes, leading to painful dental issues. Other common problems include gingivitis, stomatitis, and periodontal disease. health problems can affect your cat’s overall lifespan, so it’s essential to brush their teeth regularly using feline-safe toothpaste and to follow your vet’s recommendations for professional dental cleanings.
3. Zoomies After Litter Box Use Are Common
Think of it as a celebratory lap! Many cats dash around energetically after using the litter box for a movement. Occasionally, this behavior may indicate discomfort, such as constipation or inflammation in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract.
If your cat exhibits unusual litter box habits, it’s worth discussing them with your veterinarian. But in most cases, post-poop zoomies are simply a fun way for your cat to say, "Mission accomplished!"
4. Cat Whiskers Are Extra Sensitive
A cat’s whiskers are thicker and coarser than its regular fur and have roots embedded three times deeper into the skin. These whiskers are strategically positioned on their face and function like a finely tuned sensory system, helping cats navigate their environment much like an insect’s antennae.
Most cats have 12 whiskers arranged in four rows on each cheek. These sensitive whiskers also house scent glands, which is why cats love having their faces rubbed—it’s a sensory delight!
5. Cats Are Nearsighted but Excel in the Dark
Cats are nearsighted due to the large size and forward placement of their eyes, meaning they struggle to focus on objects closer than a foot away.
However, they make up for this limitation with exceptional night vision. Thanks to specialized light-sensitive cells called rods and a reflective layer at the back of their eyes (known as the tapetum), cats can see in light levels eight times dimmer than humans can.
6. A Cat’s Cerebral Cortex Matches a Bear’s
Despite having brains much smaller than a bear’s, cats and brown bears have nearly identical numbers of processing cells in their cerebral cortex—about 250 million.
That’s impressive, but it’s still far fewer than the human brain, which has approximately 26 billion cells in its cortex.
7. Dewclaws Are Functional Tools
The small claw located on the inner wrist of a cat, known as the dewclaw, functions similarly to a human thumb, though it’s not opposable. Cats use it to grip surfaces while climbing or to hold onto prey.
Dewclaws rarely cause issues, but they may overgrow if not trimmed regularly. While surgical removal is generally unnecessary, these claws play an important role in your cat’s daily activities.
8. The Belly Pouch
The loose, swinging pouch on your cat’s belly isn’t just extra big—it’s a feature present in all cats, including big ones like lions and tigers.
This structure, known as the primordial pouch, may provide protection during fights or offer extra skin for flexibility while running. However, it’s important to distinguish between a natural pouch and excess weight from obesity.
9. Scratching Furniture Is a Way of Marking
Cats have scent glands in their paws, and when they scratch furniture, they leave behind a small but distinct smell. This serves as a territorial marker, letting other animals know that spot is their spot.
Scratches on furniture also act as a visual marker of your cat’s domain. Providing a sturdy scratching post near their favorite off-limits furniture can redirect their scratching instincts to an approved area.
Cats are endlessly fascinating creatures with behaviors and features that continue to amaze. From their unique whiskers to their incredible night vision, these furry friends are full of surprises. Take a moment to appreciate the little quirks that make your cat so extraordinary!
25 Surprising Cat Facts You (Probably) Didn't Know
Video by The Purring Journal
