Kumis Function In Cats, Anything? Apart From Being A Sensor, This Is The Complete Explanation

Illustration of any mustache function in cats (Freepik/master1305)

YOGYAKARTA Kumis which grows around the cheeks, eyebrows, and lips of cats is made of keratin protein. Latin names for mention of mustaches on cats are vibrsae, which means vibrational'. As it turns out, the cat mustache functions significantly for them.

Basically, mustaches on cats are like dozens of radar sensors that help navigation. According to veterinarian Nachamari Rivera-Rios, DVM. at Sungetik Cat Hospital, Okemos, Mich, the mustache is closely connected to a sensory hub, similar to the human finger. Kumis in cats helps them with spatial orientation and assessment of their environment. In fact, the mustache on cats can feel a hard or soft surface.

Kumis kucing functions to detect airflows. With the ability to detect airflows, cats can determine the shape, size, and speed of objects they pass through. The mechanism of the mustache function also helps cats respond, such as if it matches the situation, I can sit'. Cats also use their mustaches to maintain balance when jumping and climbing various places.

An interdisciplinary research team from Northwestern University in April 2021 released its research findings. That the cat mustache communicates touch to the brain. The mechanism is quite complicated, but in principle, the cat roots are hidden in a pocketed follicle. When the mustache touches the object, they form a S in the follicle and then touch the sensor cell which then sends a touching signal to the brain.

Unlike other hairs in the cat's body, explains Rivera-Rios, a voluntary move mustache that also serves to express its emotions. When a cat approaches you and bends its mustache forward, it gives a hug signal.

Kumis in cats, growing to the right and left around the lips, eyebrows, and cheeks. Kumis on one side will grow elongated, half in diameter of its body. The thin, bending tip of the mustache is also very sensitive. Cats include mammal species with mustaches that require three-dimensional orientation in complex environments.

It's important to note that certain breed cats have shorter mustaches, such as Sphynx, Cornish Rex,tender Rex, and Selkirk Rex. This breed may have sensory power not only on the mustache, but vision and smell strengthens the sensor's ability.

A obese cat, the mustache does not grow long following its widening body diameter. So for domestic cat owners, it is important to provide good nutrition and a portion of not excess so that the significant functioning mustache remains in prime condition.

Cutting the cat mustache should not be done. According to veterinarian Rivera-Rios, cutting the mustache on the cat affects the sensory ability of the cat. Meanwhile, if the mustache on the cat goes out, they will grow back roughly in 7-10 days.