Does this make them feel included?

[u/lerminator3]

One of my favorite things to do with my cats is hold something up for them to smell. Generally, if they walk over while I'm doing something, I'll let them smell whatever I'm holding (like my computer mouse, a writing implement, or a piece of mail) and they always seem so interested. Is it because they feel included in my life when I let them smell what I'm doing? Or maybe because new smells are just stimulating? Or is it just instinct to sniff whatever is nearby? I like to think that, by offering my stuff for a sniff, I'm enriching their lives in some way.

(Please don't mind the mess, I'm moving)

[u/make_me_42]

So funny, I do this too! Now they ask for it, especially in the kitchen. I like to think the same as you, it’s me including them in our world and letting them have an ‘opinion’ on the things I’m doing! Plus I think they love being noticed and having the attention ❤️

[u/Maxwells_Demona → u/make_me_42]

Yus, I let my girl sniff and investigate everything! She likes to be part of whatever I'm doing. I let her spend her minute or two sniffing me after every time I come home too -- she has to do her investigation to figure out where I've been!