15 Unusual Facts About Cats That Most People Don't Know

14. Cats Have 473 Taste Buds But Cannot Taste Sweet Things

Cats may have sophisticated palates with over 400 taste buds, but they lack the ability to taste sweetness. Unlike humans and many other animals, cats don’t have the taste receptors for sugar. This trait evolved because cats are obligate carnivores, relying on protein and fat rather than carbohydrates for their diet. So, while you might enjoy a sugary treat, your cat won’t find it tempting. Their taste buds are more attuned to detecting savory flavors, ensuring they seek out the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It’s just another way cats are perfectly adapted to their role as natural-born hunters.