If a cat is losing its whiskers (vibrissae), it does not necessarily mean that it has health problems. Nevertheless, it sometimes makes sense to consult a specialist, veterinarians believe.
If a cat accidentally breaks its vibrissae, they will grow back, provided that the follicle is not damaged. It takes about 40 to 90 days for new whiskers to grow back.
There are also other reasons for the loss of vibrissae:
allergies;
certain medications;
fungal, bacterial, or parasitic skin infections;
bowls of the wrong size;
increased production of sebum;
various injuries.
So why are vibrissae needed?
To assess the environment;
to avoid potential dangers to the muzzle and eyes;
they help hunt better at night;
with the help of whiskers, a cat understands whether it can squeeze through a narrow opening.
