What is the function of the cat's whiskers?

What is the function of the cat's whiskers?
The cat's whiskers have been a source of discussion for a long time - mainly in relation to their function. There are approximately 24 movable whiskers around the cat's nose, distributed on each of the two sides. The whiskers are arranged in four rows, having a unique pattern on each cat, like fingerprints on every human being.

A cat's whiskers are sensitive to air currents. This sensitivity is invaluable for a cat to measure wind speed and direction. This helps them feel the presence, size and shape of nearby objects without even looking at or touching them. It also helps them identify the location of potential prey or protect a new litter of kittens from predators.

The distance between the tip and tip of a cat's whiskers is almost as wide as its body. This helps them know whether or not they will be able to enter a particular entrance. As soon as the cat puts its head inside the entrance, the whiskers indicate how wide it is, and whether it is convenient to enter it.

Researchers have found that the cat's whiskers help it fix its eyes on its prey. In the absence of whiskers, the animal would be unable to pursue its victim.


Looking at a cat's whiskers, especially when she's in front of another cat, helps determine her mood. If you move them forward, it indicates sympathy or curiosity; if you move them backward, it is a sign of defensiveness or aggression.


If the cat constantly moves its whiskers back and forth, it may know the condition of its prey. The whiskers help him to know whether the prey is already dead or not, and whether he can leave it for a moment without fear of it escaping.

A cat's whiskers are very sensitive, even the slightest touch to one of its whiskers makes the cat blink. However, their extra sensitivity can sometimes cause discomfort to the animal.

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