Americans spent more than $17 billion on cat food over the last year, a 14 percent increase from 2024. Much of this growth comes from premium, “human-grade” options designed for aging pets, including soft mousses and pyramid-shaped kibble. Companies like Purina and Mars are investing heavily in feline taste research.
At a facility in southern France, researchers observe cats choosing between foods on calibrated scales to refine recipes. Scientists study why cats prefer savory flavors like tuna, linked to their umami receptors, while ignoring sweet tastes. Despite these innovations, many cats remain notoriously picky, demanding specific brands or flavors one day and rejecting them the next.
One researcher in England noted that cats often display sudden, seemingly arbitrary preferences, making consistent satisfaction a challenge for owners and manufacturers alike.
Источник: New York Times Top Stories · Сводку подготовил HeadlinesBriefing