Q:
Is It Normal for Cats to Lose Their Whiskers?
A:
Quick Answer
It is normal for a cat to lose and regrow whiskers as a result of natural shedding. However, there are common diseases of the whiskers that can cause abnormal shedding, including bacterial infections, mange, burns, trauma due to stress or injury and genetic hair follicle dysplasia.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Alan Huett
CC-BY-2.0
Full Answer
Whiskers are touch receptors anchored within a cat's body, well below the shorter top coat. The long, stiff hairs transmit sensory information to the muscles and the nervous system, helping the cat detect and respond to surrounding stimuli. The whiskers are located on either side of the cat's nose and above the eyes, but whiskers are also present on the jaw and on the back of the front legs.
Learn more about CatsRelated Questions
-
Q:
When Should a Cat Be Spayed?
A: Female cats should be spayed before they are 6 months old to prevent urine spraying and to stop them from becoming pregnant. It is not a good idea to spay ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Do You Speak Cat?
A: While cats can verbalize their feelings through meows, chirps and growls, being able to interpret their body language is key for communication. Over time, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
When Should You Neuter a Cat?
A: The American Veterinary Medical Association encourages pet owners to surgically sterilize their cats as early as possible, between 8 and 16 weeks of age. I... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Can Be Given to a Cat to Sedate It?
A: There are several tranquilizers available with a prescription from a veterinarian to help relieve stress and anxiety in cats, including Valium and Promace.... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
Will a Cat Without Whiskers Lose It's Sense of Balance?
-
Q:
How Do You Prepare Your Home for Adopting a Birman Kitten?
-
Q:
How Do You Choose the Right Cat Food for Your Pet?
-
Q:
Is Eucalyptus Poisonous to Cats?
-
Q:
What Are the Signs of Diabetes in a Cat?
-
Q:
What Are Some Home Remedies for Preventing Cat Spraying?
