Why cats need whiskers and whether they can be trimmed: 5 interesting facts about cat whiskers that few people know

Cats' whiskers not only decorate their appearance but also perform many interesting functions that few people know about. SSPDaily has told you 5 interesting facts about cat whiskers that will help you understand their importance.

The location of the whiskers

Fluffy cats have vibrissae above the eyes and on the back of their front paws. These extra antennae help cats gather important information about their environment.

Symmetry

The whiskers on a cat's face have a symmetrical pattern. Typically, cats have 24 whiskers arranged in four rows, with three whiskers in each row. This number can vary slightly, but it remains always even.

Sensitivity

Feline vibes are extremely sensitive, causing a condition called feline whisker stress. Excessive irritation of these antennae can cause discomfort for cats. Therefore, if you notice that your cat is scooping food out of the bowl before eating it, use a wider bowl to prevent the antennae from rubbing against the sides.

Functions of the paw whiskers

The whiskers on the back of a cat's front paws also serve an important function. They help to climb trees and hunt. For example, when a cat catches prey, such as mice, its whiskers determine whether the animal has stopped moving, signaling that it is the perfect time for a decisive strike.

Whiskers as a sign of mood

A cat's whiskers can also tell you the animal's mood. Fluffy and relaxed whiskers indicate that the cat is happy. If the whiskers are pressed tightly against the muzzle, it indicates fear or anxiety. When the whiskers are pointing forward and the ears are up, the cat is showing vigilance, watching something, perhaps trying to catch a spider on the wall.

Useful tips

• It is extremely important that you never trim a cat's whiskers, as they are an integral part of their sensory perception.

• Do not touch or pluck your cat's whiskers unless necessary.
• Make sure your cat's whiskers do not touch the edges of the food bowl. Using a wider bowl can be a helpful solution.