why do cats have whiskers

Cats have whiskers mainly as a highly sensitive sensory tool. These specialized hairs, called vibrissae, help cats sense their environment by detecting vibrations in air currents and nearby objects. This ability helps cats navigate tight spaces, judge distances, detect prey and danger, and maintain balance even in low light or darkness. Whiskers around their nose measure openings to see if they can fit through without getting stuck, while those above their eyes and on other parts of the body serve protective and hunting functions. Additionally, whisker position can communicate a cat’s mood. Whiskers should never be trimmed as they are vital for spatial awareness and orientation.