Cat whiskers are an adorable feline feature and they serve several important purposes. Here are some interesting facts about your feline friend’s whiskers.
- Whiskers are also known as vibrissae, and are thicker, stiffer hairs that are more deeply rooted in the skin. They serve as an important sensory tool for cats since they are rich in nerve endings.
- Whiskers are not just located on a cat’s muzzle, they are also above the eyes, on the chin, and on the back of a cat’s front legs (carpal whiskers).
- A cat’s muzzle whiskers help them discern if they can fit into a small or narrow space.
- Carpal whiskers help cats climb and determine the position of their prey.
- Whiskers above a cat’s eyes help protect their eyes by triggering an eye blink when they sense something nearing their face.
- Whiskers are highly sensitive and can detect slight changes in an air current which allows them to maneuver in the dark.
- A cat’s emotion is expressed through their whiskers. Usually, when whiskers are hanging loosely, the cat is relaxed. Whiskers will typically face forward when a cat is curious or hunting. A scared or upset cat will pin the whiskers towards their face.
