The whiskers of our felines – those thin, long, and elegant sensory organs – always amaze and delight us with their diverse shapes.
Have you noticed that sometimes a cat’s whiskers start to curl and create spiral patterns? But why this happens? Can it be a sign of possible health related problems in cats?
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind whisker curling in cats and discuss whether this phenomenon requires special attention and care.
If your cat’s whiskers are curling, contact your vet to check for possible health problems.
Causes of Whisker Curling in Cats
There are several reasons why a cat’s whiskers may curl. Here are the most common ones:
Cat whiskers play a crucial role in their orientation in the environment. Some cat breeds may naturally have long whiskers that can curl over time or when encountering objects .
Rubbing and aging
Whiskers can curl due to friction against surfaces or as the cat ages . Long whiskers can also naturally curl with age .
Specifics of the breed
Some cat breeds, such as Selkirk Rex, Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, and La Perm, have whiskers with a natural curl due to a common ancestor.
New whisker growth
Whiskers may curl as new whiskers grow or from rubbing against solid objects.
Whisker curling and cat health
In general, whisker curling in cats is not a cause for concern and does not affect their health .
Cat whiskers are complex organs composed of numerous nerve endings, enabling extensive communication with the surrounding environment.
However, the animal can still lead a normal life and maintain a connection with the outside world even if its whiskers are curled or twisted.
Nevertheless, if you notice that your cat’s whiskers have suddenly started to curl, and it is a new or unusual trend, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
This will help rule out any possible diseases, skin conditions, or processes that may exacerbate curling due to inflammation or injury to the whisker base.
Conclusion
There are several possible causes of curly whiskers in cats varying from the excessive rubbing to the special characteristics of the breed.
While whisker curling in cats usually occurs without harm to their health, it is possible that your cat may have an individual case that requires special intervention or treatment.
If the whisker curling is sudden and accompanied by other symptoms such as behavior changes or loss of appetite, it may indicate an underlying health issue.
Pay attention to your pet’s condition and health, and avoid relying solely on the virtual world for your concerns.
It is recommended to consult a veterinarian for a more accurate diagnosis and guidance on caring for your beloved cat.
Happy Cat-Keeping!