Why doesn't a cat like valerian? - briefly
A cat may not like valerian due to its strong and distinctive smell, which can be overwhelming or unpleasant to them. Additionally, cats are known for their sensitivity to certain scents, and valerian's pungent odor might trigger a negative reaction in some felines.
Why doesn't a cat like valerian? - in detail
Cats are known for their peculiar preferences and aversions when it comes to plants and herbs, and one of the most notable examples is their dislike for valerian. Valerian, also known as garden heliotrope or all-heal, is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its sedative properties. However, despite its potential benefits for humans, cats exhibit a strong aversion to this herb. The reason behind this dislike can be attributed to several factors.
Firstly, the scent of valerian is particularly potent and unique. Cats have an extraordinarily sensitive sense of smell, with approximately 200 million olfactory receptors compared to humans' 5 million. This heightened sensitivity allows them to detect scents that are imperceptible or barely noticeable to us. The pungent odor of valerian, which is often described as earthy and somewhat musky, can be overwhelming for cats. This scent is believed to mimic the smell of cat urine, particularly the scent of a male cat in heat, which triggers a negative response in both male and female cats.
Secondly, the active compounds in valerian, such as actinidine and valerenic acid, are known to have psychoactive effects. While these compounds can induce relaxation and drowsiness in humans, they may cause discomfort or even agitation in cats. The chemical composition of valerian might interfere with a cat's natural hormonal balance, leading to unwanted behavioral changes that the cat perceives as unpleasant.
Lastly, there is an evolutionary aspect to consider. Cats are instinctually drawn to plants and substances that can be beneficial for their health or well-being. For example, catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, a compound that has a calming effect on cats and often elicits playful behavior. However, valerian does not provide any apparent benefits to cats and its scent may even signal the presence of other cats or predators, which could be perceived as a threat. Over time, cats have evolved to avoid plants that do not offer any advantageous properties and instead pose potential risks.
In summary, the dislike of valerian in cats is primarily due to their highly developed sense of smell, which allows them to detect the potent scent of the herb. This scent may mimic the odor of cat urine or signal the presence of other felines, leading to an aversion. Additionally, the active compounds in valerian can have psychoactive effects that are unpleasant for cats. From an evolutionary standpoint, cats have learned to avoid plants that do not provide any benefits and could potentially pose risks. Understanding these factors provides insight into the complex relationship between cats and various herbs, highlighting the importance of considering feline sensitivities when introducing new substances into their environment.