Cats have whiskers, also known as vibrissae, that serve several important functions:

• Sensory input: Whiskers are surrounded by sensory cells that transmit tactile information to the brain, similar to the signals our fingertips send to our brains. The sensory cells are stimulated by the smallest vibrations in the hair, allowing cats to feel not only solid objects that they brush against but even to notice air currents from movement nearby. This helps cats navigate their environment and avoid obstacles, especially in the dark.

• Measuring tool: Whiskers are proportionate to the width of a cats body, including its hair. This helps cats determine whether they can fit through narrow spaces, such as a crevice or cat door.

• Balance: Whiskers are finely tuned sensory equipment that guide a cat through daily functions. They aid vision and help a cat navigate the environment, providing additional sensory input, much like antennae on insects. Whiskers are body balancers that help cats maintain their balance and avoid falls.

• Protection: Whiskers also protect cats from getting into jams. As a cat approaches a narrow spot in the fence, a slender space between rocks, or a small area, the whiskers prompt the cat to back up to avoid being scratched or poked in the eye. Whiskers also help cats "see" things that lie right under their noses, by constantly sending information to the brain. When a tiny speck of dust falls on a whisker above a cats eye, the cat will blink or shake their head to fling it off. This reaction protects the eye, which can be injured by even a tiny dust particle.

In summary, whiskers are essential for cats to navigate their environment, maintain balance, and protect themselves from harm.