Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?

Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?

               Cats are complex creatures to say the least, but we love our fabulous felines! When we think of cats, we nearly always think of whiskers. But what do those whiskers do?

               Whiskers are really just specialized sensory hairs, sometimes known as vibrissae. Most mammals have them (think seals, mice, and even our canine companions). But cat whiskers have a certain charm, and they perform many functions.

• Whiskers help cats size up tight spaces and navigate their environment, especially in the dark. Did you know, a cat’s whiskers correspond to his body size? Chubbier cats tend to have longer whiskers!
• Cat whiskers are symmetrical. They have approximately twelve whiskers on either side of their muzzle and also have whiskers above their eyes and on the backs of their legs. They can move the whiskers on their face which sometimes indicates mood. Whiskers may be taut and pulled back in a tense cat or angled forward in a cat who is curious or on the hunt.
• Cats do shed or lose their whiskers periodically which is normal. But, don’t cut your cat’s whiskers as it can interfere with their ability to sense objects and judge if they will fit into a small space.
• Whiskers are deeply embedded into the facial skin and attached to the nervous system.  Some people think cats experience “whisker stress” if their whiskers constantly bump or contact the edge of a food or water bowl, but studies to support this are lacking.  If your kitty scoops food or water out of a bowl with her paw, she may prefer a larger bowl. 
• Whiskers can detect vibrations and changes in air currents, warning cats of danger or helping them follow and capture prey.

As we can see, whiskers not only make our kitties look cute, but they have many functions and help our cats balance on the thinnest of railings, fit into that tiny box, and pounce on that furry mouse toy!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/why-do-cats-have-whiskers

https://www.treehugger.com/things-you-didnt-know-about-cat-whiskers-4864051