Ever look closely at your cat? I mean really closely? Whiskers, also known as vibrissae, grow in patterns on our muzzles and are sensory extensions for us.
Each of these highly sensitive hairs can help us to 'see' if we are going to fit into a particular space, steer in the dark, or help us to stay away from a predator.
These hairs aren't just limited to our muzzles; they also grow above our eyes, in our ears, on our jaws, and even on forelegs. The root of each of these has a follicle that is loaded with nerves. When we brush them against objects, it helps us to determine the size and texture of them, even in the dark. They are sensitive to air current change which can alert us to any approaching danger.
You can also read the emotional state at times by the positioning of our whiskers. If they are flat back against our face, well chances are our ears are too and you can bet we are not happy! Whiskers angled forward with eyes dilated means I'm about to pounce on my prey!
Oh, and just in case you are thinking they need trimming, you couldn't be more wrong! Trimming our whiskers will leave us feeling disoriented and frightened. Not a good thing to do!
I hope you've enjoyed this insight into kitty whiskers! MEOW!! Have a purrrr-fect day!
