Below the infographic is some more information about the anatomy and workings of the domestic cats vibrissae. They are an amazing anatomical structure to be respected by caregivers. I can remember my late sister when she was in her early teens trimming the whiskers of the family cat! Imagine. Why? Bizarre really and definitely cruel but there was no intent. It was ignorance. Whiskers grow back when that happens which will be extremely rarely 😢😱.
Detail about the anatomy of cats’ whiskers and their nervous system:
Anatomy of Cat Whiskers and the Nerve Structures at Their Base
1. Structure of Cat Whiskers (Vibrissae)
Cat whiskers, scientifically known as vibrissae, are specialized tactile hairs that are much thicker and stiffer than regular fur. They are deeply embedded in the cat’s skin, extending three times deeper than normal hairs. These whiskers are strategically located on various parts of the body, primarily on the muzzle, above the eyes (superciliary whiskers), on the chin (mandibular whiskers), and on the back of the forelegs (carpal whiskers).
Each whisker is anchored in a follicle, surrounded by a dense blood sinus and a high concentration of sensory nerves, making them highly responsive to even the slightest touch or air movement.
2. Follicle-Sinus Complex (FSC) and Blood Sinus System
At the base of each whisker lies a specialized structure called the Follicle-Sinus Complex (FSC), which enhances sensitivity and precision in detecting environmental stimuli. The whisker follicle is encased by a two-part blood sinus system, which acts as a shock absorber and allows for amplified movement detection. This sinus system ensures that even the smallest vibration or pressure change is relayed to the cat’s nervous system with exceptional accuracy.
3. Nerve Supply to Whiskers
The whisker follicles contain a high concentration of mechanoreceptors, which are sensory cells that detect touch, pressure, and vibrations. These mechanoreceptors include:
- Merkel Cells – Detect sustained pressure and texture.
- Pacinian Corpuscles – Respond to rapid vibrations and motion.
- Ruffini Endings – Detect stretching of the skin and changes in position.
- Lanceolate Endings – Sense light touch and directional movement.
These receptors are connected to an extensive network of nerves that transmit information to the cat’s brainstem and somatosensory cortex.
4. The Role of the Trigeminal Nerve
Whisker sensations are primarily processed by the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), which has three main branches:
- Ophthalmic Branch – Serves the whiskers above the eyes.
- Maxillary Branch – Innervates the whiskers on the muzzle.
- Mandibular Branch – Supplies the lower jaw whiskers.
This nerve transmits signals to the barrel cortex in the cat’s brain, which functions similarly to the human somatosensory cortex—processing touch-related sensory data with remarkable precision.
5. Function in Hunting and Navigation
Cats rely on their whiskers to:
- Detect prey movement in the dark.
- Assess prey size and position for accurate biting.
- Navigate tight spaces by sensing environmental boundaries.
- Gauge wind currents and vibrations to locate hidden objects.
By using these highly sensitive whiskers, cats can pinpoint the nape of a prey’s neck with precision, ensuring a quick and effective kill.
