Do you wonder why your cat leaves its bowl half-full? A Japanese team from Iwate University has found the answer. It is all about their sense of smell.

The study showed that cats' noses get 'bored' quickly. After a few minutes, a cat's brain gets used to the scent, so the food no longer seems exciting. This is why cats prefer many small meals; they stop eating before they are full because the smell becomes 'boring'.

This discovery also helps us manage our pets' weight. We can help sick cats eat more with new scents, or help fat cats eat less by giving them the same food.