While it's fun to learn about cat whiskers, it's best never to touch them. Whiskers play an essential role in how cats operate in their environment and stay safe and healthy.
So what is it about scent-gland areas that cause cats to enjoy being petted there? When you rub these spots (like the cheeks behind the whiskers, pictured here), the glands release your cat's scent onto you. Cat experts call this "scent marking."
Whiskers are more sensitive than regular hairs because the follicles from which they originate are jam-packed with blood vessels and nerves. In fact, whiskers are as sensitive as a human's fingertips. So, while a human's sense of touch is in the fingers, a cat touches the world with his face.
Some prefer head scratches; some love to be petted just above their tails. Every cat has its own preferences, but I have to say the whisker thing is a new one on me. Those whiskers are so sensitive! But if that's what he wants, yes, it's unusual; just go with it.
In general, cats prefer to be stroked along their back or scratched under the chin or around the ears. Paws, tails, their underbellies and their whiskers (which are super sensitive) are best avoided.
The most important sensory receptor for a cat is their nose. A cat is believed to have around 200 million scent receptors in their nose. These millions of receptors act as an indicator that helps sense the world around them, such as food, friends, prey, and even navigating their way around the neighborhood.
If you've ever wondered why your cat doesn't like their paws being touched, it's actually because they're one of the most sensitive parts of their body. They're packed full of nerve receptors which enables them to feel vibrations and helps with balance.
Tail: Most cats don't particularly like to be petted on the tail. And for what it's worth, a cat's tail is a good measuring stick for how stimulated (read: agitated) she's becoming as a result of your petting. The more it starts to move, the sooner you should keep your hands to yourself.
Cats typically don't like being petted on their tummy, legs/feet, or tail. Of course, there are always outliers—some cats will love every bit of affection, no matter where they're touched or who's doing it. But generally, you shouldn't pet a cat you don't know on their stomach or extremities.
Does cutting a cat's whiskers hurt them? Cutting a cat's whiskers won't hurt them, but it will cause stress and confusion because cats rely on their whiskers to communicate, balance, protect themselves, and learn about the world around them.
While it's fun to learn about cat whiskers, it's best never to touch them. Whiskers play an essential role in how cats operate in their environment and stay safe and healthy.
They serve an important function. Whiskers are specifically tuned sensory equipment that guide a cat through daily functions. These specialized hairs aid vision and help a cat navigate his environment, providing additional sensory input, much like antennae on insects.
Although whiskers are called “tactile hairs,” they do not actually feel anything. They simply transmit information to sensory cells when they detect objects or movement. Detecting subtle changes in air currents, dog whiskers transmit information about the size, shape, and speed of nearby objects.
According to Johnson-Bennett, most cats like being pet on the back of the head and under their chin, with some enjoying long strokes down their back towards their tail (other cats, however, may not want you near their tail).
The ears - Some cats like their ears scratched, rubbed, or gently twisted. A few even go for having a knuckle rubbed against their ears' exteriors. If your cat appears to have very itchy ears, ask the vet to take a look at them. Itchiness could signal mites or allergies.
They get up close. Cats are very protective of their personal space and don't like unwelcome guests to invade it. If a cat allows you to get close to them, that suggests a close bond, particularly where the contact is frequent or long lasting. Curling up on your lap for a nap is a sign of deep trust.
Some studies have shown cats don't like their tail area being petted, while other cats love it. In contrast, most cats are uncomfortable being petted around their legs. Avoid the sides of their body and their throat region. Don't pet against the direction of their fur, from tail to head.
As a general rule, cats are sensitive when it comes to smells, but there are a few scents they hate that might just surprise you. They can't stand citrus and as much as you might love the smell of fresh herbs, cats hate rosemary and thyme. Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus.
Head, Shoulders, Cheeks and Nose
The head, chin and neck are often their favorites. While some cats enjoy having their tails touched, others will recoil and even experience pain from a tail stroke. Take it slowly, paying close attention to your cat's reactions to your touch and always respecting their preferences.
Every cat is different. While some cats enjoy being kissed, others will not. Some will feel love, while others will not see kissing as a sign of affection. There are better ways than kissing to show a cat affection that they will understand.
Unfamiliar Objects, Fruit or People
But it is a good example of cats being afraid of unfamiliar things (people, objects, fruits, etc.). Cats like to feel safe and secure in their home — if something new enters their space, that's probably going to cause some stress.
As a general guide, most friendly cats will enjoy being touched around the regions where their facial glands are located, including the base of their ears, under their chin, and around their cheeks. These places are usually preferred over areas such as their tummy, back and base of their tail.
Living in a cold or wet place, without shelter, can lead to unnecessary suffering. A cat must be able to avoid things that scare it, including other cats. They all need a place to hide where they feel safe. They often feel safest when high up.