Have you ever wondered why cats have whiskers? What is there purpose and why do cats need them?
If your cat is like most cats, they can probably squeeze in places you would have never imagined possible. That’s because your cat’s whiskers tell them where they can – and cannot – fit in small places.
While we humans have to visually assess whether or not we can fit into a tight space, cats do not even have to use their eyes. Their whiskers tell them everything they need to know about whether they can fit or not.
Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
What does a cat’s whiskers do?
A cat’s whiskers are highly sensitive and help cats determine how much space they have to maneuver and in many ways replace a cat’s eyesight when the cat is blind. The tip of your cat’s whiskers deliver messages to the brain, telling the brain the animals around her and more about her surroundings.
You may also be surprised to learn that cats even have whiskers on the back of their legs, which assist cats with their tree climbing.
How’s your cat feeling?
Your cat may communicate anger through hissing or contentment with purrs. But, you can also get a good idea of your cat’s current mood if you watch their whiskers. Are your cat’s whiskers standing straight out and still? If so, you’ve got a very happy and a relaxed feline friend. Are your cat’s whiskers pulled back against their face? Something’s got them stressed out or afraid.
You can also tell if your cat is on the prowl – for their treats or at the scent of another animal – if their whiskers are slightly pushed forward.
Never cut your cat’s whiskers
You may not like your cat’s long, wispy whiskers. But, they need them. Never cut or trim your cat’s whiskers because they need them just like we humans need our sense of touch. If you want to know how it feels to be a cat without whiskers, have someone put a blindfold on you in the middle of a store or a busy place. You will likely become scared and confused, the same as your cat will feel without their whiskers.
What is the tightest space into which your cat has squeezed?
