What Is Whisker Fatigue And Is It Real? Here's What We Know

Has your cat shown less interest in their food lately or only been eating out of the center of the bowl? Whisker fatigue, also known as whisker stress, is one possible cause. However, there's some debate over whether or not whisker stress actually exists, spurring conversation between pet parents and their veterinarians. While a 2020 study in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery found that there was no preference for whisker-friendly bowls over regular ones, other experts, such as cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy, assure that it's a real problem.

Whiskers are sensitive organs that help cats move around their environments. When those whiskers receive constant information, such as through brushing against the food bowl, it may cause overstimulation. This can show up in many ways, mainly as behavioral changes. Your cat may not want to eat, pace in front of the bowl, paw at it, or dump their food onto the floor. They could also seem stressed out or less interested in their typical activities. 

It's important to keep in mind that just because your cat is behaving differently around their food, it doesn't mean they're experiencing whisker fatigue. Speaking to Wag, veterinarian, Dr. Linda Simon explained, "Whisker stress is not something I have encountered in practice." This may suggest that something else is the cause behind a cat's disinterest in their food. For this reason, you'll want to rule out any health issues that may have led to their behavioral changes. This includes dental problems such as plaque or tartar buildup, gum disease, facial pain, and food allergies.

Once your cat has checked out as healthy, try making a few changes at home to keep your feline happier at mealtimes. Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Hospital recommends buying a flat food bowl that your kitty's whiskers won't come into contact with. You can pick up a two-pack of CatGuru Whisker Stress Free Bowls on Amazon. Your feline friend may also benefit from some cat puzzle toys that provide extra enrichment and fun when eating. Look for a flat toy that doesn't brush their face, or one that allows them to interact with their paws. This can give their whiskers a rest while they eat. It's also important that you don't trim your cat's whiskers, as this can cause them pain and discomfort.