Why cats can be stressed by whiskers and whether they can grow more than just a muzzle: interesting facts

Cat whiskers are much more than rudimentary accessories. In fact, it would be difficult for cats to perform a number of important functions without them.

The whiskers are two to three times thicker than normal cat fur and have deep roots. It is present not only near the mouth but also over the eyes, near the ears and on the back of the forelegs - all the places that a cat needs to gather information about its surroundings. Treehugger tells us more about cat whiskers.

Pair number

Cats usually have 24 whiskers - 12 on each cheek. They grow in four horizontal rows of three in each. Some cats have more than 24 whiskers, but the total should always be an even number. It is important for the whiskers to be distributed symmetrically on both sides of the muzzle - so that the cat can accurately read its surroundings.

Complicated system

Unlike human hair, cat whiskers are deeply rooted and connected to the nervous system. The tips of the whiskers are equipped with sensory organs called proprioreceptors. Their main function is to send signals to the brain to better determine the distance to an object and the direction of movement.

Whisker stress

'Whisker stress' occurs when the food or water bowl is too narrow. The whiskers are so sensitive that they can even become damaged if they come into frequent contact with the surface of the bowl.

Paw whiskers

Sensitive whiskers on the back of the forelegs and underside of the wrists help the cat to climb trees and kill prey. When a cat holds a mouse, say, in its forelegs, these whiskers tell it whether its prey is moving (as a cat can't see well up close) and whether the prey is in a suitable position for a lethal bite.

Mood indicators

A relaxed and saggy moustache indicates a contented animal. If a cat pushes its whiskers back, it's very frightened. This was found in a study conducted by the University of Melbourne. If its whiskers are protruding and its ears are bent backwards - be careful - it might show signs of aggression.

Why a moustache might fall out

Mustaches should never be trimmed. It goes through its natural growth and loss phases, just like its hair. It's normal to occasionally find a mustache at home that has fallen out. It's nothing to worry about - it will grow back on its own. However, if you notice a sudden increase in moustache, it could mean that your cat is suffering from allergies or infection.

Previously, OBOZREVATEL told you what mistakes cat owners often make in the summer.

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