Study Finds Cats Identify Owners by Scent Using Nostril Preference

Recent research from Tokyo University of Agriculture reveals that domestic cats can distinguish between the scents of familiar humans and strangers, spending more time sniffing unknown odors. The study, involving 30 cats, presented them with scent samples from their owners and unfamiliar individuals, finding that cats initially use their right nostril to investigate new smells before switching to the left as they become more familiar. Male cats with neurotic personalities showed repetitive sniffing behavior, while more agreeable males sniffed calmly, with no personality effect observed in females. Additionally, cats displayed lateralized nostril use when smelling unfamiliar humans, and some engaged in face rubbing after sniffing, suggesting a possible link between olfactory exploration and marking behavior. Despite these findings, it remains unclear whether cats can identify specific individuals solely by scent. These insights challenge the stereotype of cats as aloof by demonstrating their nuanced sensory recognition of human companions.