Whiskers

What is a neck cone?  It is a strip of plastic that fastens together to form a cone as shown on my cat, Tigger, who has since 'crossed over the bridge."   Note that the cone was secured to his collar to keep him from slipping out of it or taking it off. Cones now come in all shapes, colors, textures and sizes to fit the smallest kitten or puppy to the largest dog.  The problem with this traditional kind of neck cone is that it surrounds and disables the whiskers.  It also partially blocks the cats peripheral vision.

Where did the word whisker come from?  The word ‘whisker” originally derived in the 1600’s from the word ‘wisker’ meaning anything that whisks or sweeps.  Your cat’s whiskers are like little brooms. 

What are whiskers?  Whiskers are thick, stiff, hair-like projections and are called ‘vibrissae’ because they vibrate when a current of air passes over them.  

How do whiskers work?  The base of each whisker is connected under the skin to a network of tiny nerves that transmit signals to the brain in nano-seconds.  The whisker vibrates in response to a mere current of air and/or touch.  The nerves notify the brain of the vibration.  Whiskers, responding to air currents and touch, guide your cat through the maze of objects in their 'jungle' inside and outside your home.