There seem to be many ordinary, everyday things that cats can’t get enough of. They love to bask in the sunlight, enjoy making toys out of plain objects that are not toys, and even certain foods that our cats can’t seem to get enough of. While we know that cats are crazy about anything scented like fish–like canned tuna fish– you might be surprised to learn that most cats are crazy about olives. And not just any olive, either. If you have a cat obsessed with these tasty and naturally salty snacks, keep reading to learn why cats love olives.
In a cat’s eyes, not all olives are created equal.
The same can be said in the eyes of humans, too. Because, as we know, many people—significantly younger people—are not fans of black olives. Cats are typically uninterested in olives unless they’re green ones. You know, like the ones that taste fabulous in a martini or on your veggie tray—especially dipped in ranch dressing. Your cat is a fan of green olives for a different reason than you are. For them, green olives contain the same chemical as catnip. So, when your cat gets a good sniff of green olives, the isoprenoids compound in them creates a euphoric response that can drive your cat wild. And it’s not just the green olive itself that your cat will be crazy about because the pimento of the green olive contains the isoprenoids compound as well. This chemical compound reacts similarly to the nepetalactone found in catnip. So, olives are the edible equivalent of catnip in cats’ minds!
Is it safe for a cat to eat green olives?
Since cats are known to want to eat catnip sometimes, it might make you wonder if it’s safe for your cat to eat green olives. Cat experts say it’s safe for your cat to nibble on green olives, but you need to be mindful as to whether or not those green olives have been salted, contain a preserving chemical agent, or have been soaking in olive oil. Your cat is an obligate carnivore, as you know, so it’s essential to be mindful of their health needs to keep them at a healthy weight. Carbohydrates, oily substances, and preservation chemicals won’t benefit your cat’s health, so stick to nibbles on naked green olives to keep them safe.
Want to know some other human foods that cats love?
Cats are fond of several human foods, but that doesn’t mean that these foods are safe for our kitties to consume. If you’re curious about what human foods you can share safely with your cat, check out the list below!
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Lean meats, like chicken, are safe as long as they don’t contain garlic or onion, which is toxic to cats.
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Eggs
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Whole grains
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Fish
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Bananas
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Spinach
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Canteloupe
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Pease
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Pumpkin
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Aged cheeses, such as Swiss, cheddar, or gouda
Now that you’ve learned why cats love olives so much, check out this next article on Cattitude Daily to know why cats love to lick plastic—the answer might even surprise you!
