What is Whisker Fatigue in Cats?

CALLING ALL CAT OWNERS:

Your furry friends might not be picky eaters after all!

If you’ve noticed that your cat seems to only eat from the middle of their bowl and leaves the rest of the pellets, it might not be about pickiness. Your cat could be experiencing whisker fatigue.

Whiskers are crucial sensory tools for cats. They’re not just longer and thicker than regular hair; they’re deeply rooted in the skin, connected to nerve endings and muscles. This setup allows cats to move their whiskers to detect prey and navigate their surroundings.

A cat’s whiskers are as long as their body and serve an essential sensory function. They help cats judge distances and detect even the slightest vibrations in the air.

Because whiskers are highly sensitive to touch, they can become overstimulated with continuous contact. This overstimulation, known as whisker fatigue or whisker stress, can cause discomfort. Cat food and water bowls are often the main culprits of whisker fatigue.

To spot potential whisker fatigue symptoms, keep an eye on your cat while they are eating.  These are the most common symptoms following whisker fatigue:

  • Dragging or dropping food outside of the bowl and eating off the ground.
  • Always leaving food in the bottom of the bowl.
  • Pawing at the water or food dishes.
  • Nervously approaching the food or water bowl.
  • Pacing or vocalizing near the bowls.
  • Becoming aggressive toward other pets in the home.
  • Acting hungry when there’s food in the bowl.

What are the solutions to minimize or prevent whisker fatigue all together?
The simplest way to prevent whisker fatigue is to switch to wide, shallow bowls for your cat’s food and water. Opt for stainless steel bowls to help prevent bacteria growth, as they’re easier to clean and more durable. Many pet product manufacturers offer whisker-friendly bowls designed specifically to reduce whisker stress. However, regular saucers can also work effectively.

References
Blue Cross. Bluecross. 2019 March 2019. Article. 15 April 2024.
Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital. What is Whisker fatigue in Cats? New Jersey, 28 February 2023. Blog.