What chemical is in photo paper that makes cats want to lick it?

Question

The cat that I grew up with has always been notorious for licking photos and bengay, is it sweet? My husband says that is why animals such as cats are prone to dying from antifreeze poisoning, b/c it is sweet tasting. So what is it in these three things, photos, bengay, and antifreeze that makes cats lick them? I have pondered this for years and am glad to have found somewhere to ask this question, it's been driving me nuts! Thanks in advance for your answers!

Answer 1

The answer is celluloid. This substance is made from plants but has a very distinctive taste. it is farley non-toxic but it would be best not to let them lick it, and not only because it destroys the photo. Anti-freeze contiain a substance called Gycol which is closely related to in some ways to Gylcerol, the acohol of Glucose, however anti-freeze (Gycrol) is highly toxic and if you have a cat drinking it take it to the vet now. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

My cat will sit and lick photos too, he also likes licking glossy business cards and artificial christmas trees too.

I doubt it's a chemical thing, maybe more like the texture or taste of it is my guess.

Answer 3

I'd like to know too. My cat licks plastic bags and anything made out of mesh. It's quite annoying.

Answer 4

i want to know the answer also. my one cat i have to hide photos from cause when he finds them, he sits there and licks them forever. the same cat likes tape and plastic bags.

Answer 5

Sounds interesting

Answer 6

That's so funny! I was just thinking the same thing the other night .

Answer 7

ask a vet

Answer 8

Thanks for the answers everyone xx