Why does a cat love calendula? - briefly
Cats are drawn to calendula due to its strong scent and bitter taste, which can mimic certain aromas found in catnip. This attraction is believed to be linked to the presence of nepetalactone, a compound that triggers a euphoric response in many felines.
Why does a cat love calendula? - in detail
Cats are known for their peculiar tastes and preferences when it comes to plants and flowers. One of the plants that often captivates their interest is calendula, also known as pot marigold. The attraction cats have towards this plant can be attributed to several factors, each contributing to the feline's unique interaction with calendula.
Firstly, calendula emits a distinct scent that is appealing to cats. Cats have an exceptional sense of smell, with approximately 200 million olfactory receptors in their nasal cavity compared to about six million in humans. The scent of calendula contains certain compounds that are known to be attractive to felines. These compounds include thymol and carvacrol, which are also found in catnip, a plant notorious for its ability to induce a euphoric state in cats. When cats come into contact with these scents, they can experience a pleasant sensation that makes them want to rub against the plant or even roll around it.
Secondly, the texture and feel of calendula leaves and petals may contribute to its appeal. Cats are tactile creatures, and they often explore their environment using their paws and whiskers. The soft, slightly rough surface of calendula leaves can provide a satisfying sensory experience for cats as they rub against or chew on the plant. This tactile stimulation can be soothing and enjoyable for them, further reinforcing their attraction to calendula.
Thirdly, there is a possibility that calendula might offer some nutritional benefits to cats. Calendula contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, C, and E, as well as calcium and iron. While cats are obligate carnivores and require a diet primarily consisting of meat, they may still be drawn to calendula for its nutritional content. The cat's instinctive desire for varied nutrition might play a role in their attraction to this plant.
Lastly, the bright color of calendula flowers can also contribute to its allure. Cats have better color vision than humans, being able to distinguish between different shades and hues more effectively. The vibrant orange or yellow colors of calendula flowers can catch a cat's attention, making them curious enough to investigate the plant further.
In conclusion, cats are drawn to calendula for a combination of reasons including its appealing scent, satisfying texture, potential nutritional benefits, and vivid color. Understanding these factors provides valuable insights into the complex relationship that cats have with this particular plant.