Those magnificent whiskers adorn your cat's beautiful face, giving it that wise and curious look. But did you know that a cat's whiskers (scientifically known as Vibrisse) are a true marvel of nature? They're not just decorative; they're a highly sophisticated tool that helps your cat understand the world around it.
1. Not just on the face!
While the most noticeable whiskers are on the cheeks, you might also find them:
Above her eyes: like long eyebrows.
On her chin: resembling a small beard.
On her forearm: just behind her front ankle.
2. Whiskers with Deep Roots!
The root of each whisker hair is deeply embedded in your cat's skin, surrounded by a dense network of nerves and blood vessels. This makes each whisker like an incredibly sensitive "antenna." Even the slightest touch or vibration in the air is instantly translated into sensory information that travels to your cat's brain.
3. A Natural Measure of the World!
This is the most well-known function of a cat's whiskers. The side whiskers typically extend to the same width as the cat's body. Your cat uses this measurement to determine whether it can squeeze through a narrow opening. It's a handy measuring tool that prevents them from getting into embarrassing (and potentially dangerous) situations!
4. A radar for close-range eating!
Have you noticed your cat sometimes hesitates to eat or drink from a narrow, deep bowl? The reason is their whiskers! When their whiskers touch the edges of the bowl, they send irritating signals to their brain, a condition called "whistle fatigue." The solution? Use wide, shallow bowls for food and water.
5. Extra eyes in the dark!
Cats can't see very well in complete darkness, but their whiskers compensate. These whiskers sense the slightest changes in air currents, which bounce off nearby objects. This helps them create a mental map of their surroundings even in low light, making them unparalleled hunters.
6. The Secret Language of Body Language!
A cat's whiskers are a window into its emotions! Look at your cat's whiskers to find out what it's feeling:
Relaxed and pointing to the sides: The cat is calm and happy.
Pulled forward and flashing: The cat is curious, focused, or in a hunting position.
Pressed against the cheeks and against the face: The cat is scared, anxious, or defensive.
7. Never cut them!
This is the golden rule. Cutting or plucking a cat's whiskers is not only painful (like cutting your fingertip!), but it also severely disrupts their sensory abilities. They may become confused, fearful, and lose their ability to navigate safely. If a whisker falls out naturally, don't worry, it will grow back.
8. Colored and changing whiskers!
You might notice that your cat's whiskers are white even if their fur is colored.
Therefore, we have dedicated the seventh bird for you:
Purina Indoor Dry Food for Adult Cats for Hairball Control with Chicken 1.5kg
N&D dry food for kittens with pomegranate and chicken 1.5kg
Kippy White Meat Wet Cat Food for Adults 400g