A cat's just not a cat without their distinctive feature: the whiskers. But why do cats have whiskers, anyway? Can you trim cat whiskers?
Believe it or not: Whiskers play an important role in your cat's ability to sense the world around them. Here's what you need to know about your feline friend's unique feature.
What Are Cat Whiskers?
Although they look like antennae and have a radar-like function, cat whiskers are highly sensitive hairs made of keratin, a protein also found in their claw sheaths. The whisker hairs, also called vibrissae or tactile hair, are embedded deeper in the cat's skin than their fur, and each follicle (where the whisker connects to your cat's body) has many sensitive nerve endings.
A cat's facial whiskers are the most prominent of all animal whiskers and they're very much a part of a cat's distinct look. Cats typically have 24 whiskers on their muzzle, evenly distributed with twelve on each side. Generally speaking, the length of their whiskers is proportionate to the width of their body, notes Animal Planet. However, if your cat puts on a few extra pounds, their whiskers do not grow longer to match up. Cat whiskers also grow on their chins, above their eyes and on the backs of their front legs. According to the Guinness World Records, the longest cat whiskers on record belong to Missi, a Maine Coon whose whiskers measure 7.5 inches!
Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
Whiskers aren't just hair. They're honed tools connected to one of your cat's five senses: touch. Whiskers help a cat with spatial determination ("Can I fit through that narrow doorway?"), expressing their feelings and locating their prey. All cat whiskers work together as "touch organs" for your kitty, helping them maneuver around furniture or trap that catnip toy they've been stalking.
Whiskers allow your cat to "see" in the dark because the whiskers pick up on the airflow around them, allowing them to detect their intended object down to its exact location and dimensions. That's a pretty impressive superpower.
As a form of cat communication, whiskers can convey that your furry friend is not happy. As Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine describes, cat whiskers that are "flattened or pressed downward onto the face" are a sign of aggression.
Tasty Tips
What Is Cat Whisker Fatigue?
Feline whisker fatigue is a condition that occurs when a cat's whiskers become sensitive from repetitive actions like brushing up against their food and water bowls, explains Cat Health, resulting in tenderness and irritation. Signs of whisker fatigue include pawing at their cat food instead of putting their head in the dish, and exhibiting signs of stress during mealtime. If you suspect your cat has whisker fatigue, Cat Health recommends switching out your cat's food and water bowls to ones that are shallow, allowing more room for whiskers to move about freely. Check in with your veterinarian to see if there may be other underlying issues, especially if you notice frequent whisker loss.
Can You Trim Cat Whiskers?
Much like a haircut, it doesn't hurt a cat if you accidentally cut off the tip of a whisker while trimming their claws, or if your cat needs their whiskers cut back before a medical procedure. "The whiskers will grow back in a couple of months, and the actual cutting of them isn't painful because they don't have nerve endings in [the whiskers themselves]," Dr. Leonie Richards, associate professor and head vet of general practice at the University of Melbourne, tells Science Daily.
However, you should never intentionally cut or pull out a cat's whiskers. Always stay clear of their whisker follicles, which are extremely sensitive to pain. Cutting a cat's whiskers reduces their ability to function, which leads to disorientation, dizziness and fear because they lose their sense of direction and cannot maneuver their body around.
Don't be alarmed if you find a stray whisker from time to time, usually near a cat's feeding area. Cat whiskers shed as they get older, but another one will grow in its place. As your cat advances into their golden years, their whiskers may turn gray. It's all a normal part of the aging process.
Left to their own devices, your cat's whiskers work to keep your furry friend operating at their peak level of health and wellness.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Supports kitten growth, digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Tender Tuna & Vegetables Stew cat food
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Urinary Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée cat food
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Salmon & Vegetable Medley Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory salmon and vegetables
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Related articles
Cats & Tuna: Is it Safe for Them?
While cats can have a strong attraction to tuna, learn details on whether tuna offers proper nutrition and is safe for them to eat.
How to Identify & Remove a Tick From a Cat
Worried that your cat may have come in contact with ticks? Learn how to identify a tick bite and steps for safely removing a tick from your cat.
Understanding Ailurophobia: The Fear of Cats
Learn the history and symptoms of ailurophobia, or the fear of cats, and how to help people who suffer from this condition.
Cat Life Hacks: Making Life Easier for You and Your Cat
Has your cat care routine gotten stale? Spice it up with these helpful cat life hacks, including tips to help manage cat hair, scratching & litter boxes.
Cat Pneumonia: Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment
Cat pneumonia can be life-threatening if not addressed when clinical signs start to show. Luckily, many cats treated for this illness recover.
Cat Kidney Health: What You Need to Know
Cat obesity is a significant problem - learn more about helping your cat become trimmer and healthier through improved nutrition.
Managing Cat Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Learn tips for managing your cat's diarrhea, including how to recognize it, what might be causing it and treatment options your vet could recommend.
Top 5 Tips For You After Adopting a New Cat
Adopting a cat feels like an easy choice, but ensuring their comfort takes preparation. Follow these tips for a lifetime of love with your new cat.
Do Cats Fart?
While it may not be common, cats to indeed pass gas. Learn how your cat's food impacts their gassiness and whether you need to be concerned.
Deciphering Your Kitten's Behavior & Body Language
Kitten's body language and behaviors tell you a lot about what they want. Learn what each behavior means and start to better understand your cat's needs.
What Is the Best Couch & Furniture Material for Cats?
Wondering what couch materials will survive your cat's claws the best? Discover the best furniture material for cats, as well as some fabrics to avoid.
Wet vs. Dry Cat Food: Which Is Best?
Wet vs. Dry Cat Food: Which Is Best?
Stress and Feline Urinary Problems: How to Deal With It
Learn how to identify and reduce the chances of feline urinary issues by helping alleviate stress in her life.
Toxoplasmosis in Cats: Facts, Symptoms, Transmission & More
Toxoplasmosis in Cats: Facts, Symptoms & Transmission
Can Cats Get Asthma?
Could your cat's wheezing & breathing issues be an asthma attack, or is it just a hairball? Learn to recognize signs of asthma and what you should do.
Managing Your Cat's Bad Breath: Causes and Remedies
Managing Your Cat's Bad Breath: Causes and Remedies
Skin Lumps on a Cat: Types, Causes & Treatment
Learn about types of skin lumps that can occur on a cat, why they happen, what each type means (i.e. fluid filled, etc.), and how they are treated.
Origins of 6 Common Cat Sayings
Learn about the origins of the most common cat phrases and exactly what it means when you hear one.
Is Your Cat Hiding Their Pain? Recognizing the Signs & Symptoms.
Cats can often mask their pain or discomfort depending on the ailment. It is important to spot the signs early and consult your vet. Learn more here.
Understanding Lungworms in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment & More
Learn the key indicators that your cat could be dealing with lungworms, such as coughing fits, and how they are treated.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.