Animals - Cats - Cat whiskers
What do cats use their whiskers for?
Correct!
A cat's whiskers are not ordinary hairs but highly sensitive tactile organs. Their follicles have a rich supply of nerves and blood vessels. When an object or moving air bends a whisker, it transmits information about the immediate surroundings to the brain.
This helps cats judge nearby distances, shapes, and movement. It is especially useful in dark or confined spaces. Whiskers are found not only on the cheeks but also above the eyes, on the chin, and on the forelegs. Their position can also give clues to mood: forward-pointing whiskers may accompany alert interest, while whiskers held close to the face can occur with uncertainty or fear. Whiskers should not be deliberately cut because a cat may be temporarily less able to navigate its surroundings until they grow back.
