What Is The Name Of Cat Eyebrow?

What Are Cat Eyebrows?

Cat eyebrows refer to the longer hairs that grow above a cat’s eyes. These hairs are not technically eyebrows, as cats do not have eyebrow bones like humans do. However, the placement and appearance of these hairs makes them look like eyebrows.

The hairs above a cat’s eyes are a specialized type of whisker called supraorbital vibrissae. Like other whiskers, they are thicker and more rigid than regular fur. The eyebrows help cats sense objects and air currents around their face, acting similarly to antennae.

Cat eyebrows differ from the rest of a cat’s facial fur in a few key ways:

• They are longer, extending 1-2 inches past the face.
• They are thicker and stiffer than regular fur.
• They are set in more prominent follicles, allowing greater tactile sensitivity.
• They are arranged in an arch shape mimicking human brows.

So in summary, cat eyebrows are not true eyebrows, but are specialized hairs that look and function similarly to human eyebrows in terms of shape, placement, and sensory role.

Why Do Cats Have Eyebrows?

Cats have eyebrows for several evolutionary purposes related to communication and sensory functions. The eyebrows consist of stiff hairs above the eyes that are part of the whisker pad. These hairs serve as eyebrow whiskers that aid cats in spatial awareness and navigation.

Eyebrow whiskers help cats gauge whether they can fit into small spaces and detect objects near their face. The eyebrows also assist cats with expressing emotions and intent through subtle facial movements. For example, lowered eyebrows can indicate aggression, while raised eyebrows communicate fear or submission.

Overall, cat eyebrows allow for enhanced sensory perception and nonverbal communication. They emerged evolutionarily as important tools for survival and social interaction among felines.

Different Types of Cat Eyebrows

Cats can have different eyebrow shapes and styles that range from puffy and rounded to angled and pointy. Here are some of the most common types of cat eyebrows:

Puffed Eyebrows

Puffed eyebrows are full, round, and extend outwards from the eye. This gives the cat a wide-eyed curious look. Breeds like Persians and Exotic Shorthairs often have puffy, rounded brows.

Downturned Eyebrows

Downturned or angled eyebrows slant downwards towards the nose. This gives the cat a serious or grumpy look. The Abyssinian and Somali breeds are known for their downturned brows.

M-Shaped Eyebrows

M-shaped eyebrows have a distinct indent in the middle that creates an “M” shape. This is seen in breeds like the Ragdoll, Birman, and Maine Coon. The indented brow gives them a softer, sweeter facial expression.

Cat Eyebrow Expressions

A cat’s eyebrows, also known as whisker pads, can say a lot about their mood and emotions. Eyebrow positions and movements communicate how a cat is feeling. Understanding eyebrow expressions can help owners better interpret their cat’s body language.

Relaxed eyebrows indicate a calm, happy cat. When content, a cat’s eyebrows will be in a neutral, natural position. Neither raised or furrowed. According to Feline Facial Expressions: They Aren’t Always Obvious, relaxed eyebrows coupled with forward facing ears show a cat is feeling safe and secure in their environment.

Furrowed or lifted eyebrows demonstrate excitement or agitation. As explained by A guide to a cat’s facial expressions, furrowed brows coupled with widened eyes or dilated pupils signal surprise, fear or defensiveness. Lifted brows paired with constricted pupils communicate aggression or over-stimulation.

Lowered eyebrows can indicate irritation, annoyance or anxiety. Cat Face Expressions 101 discusses how eyebrows angled downward paired with a taut muzzle often means a cat is feeling threatened or insecure. This facial expression warns others to give them space.

Eyebrow positioning provides important context for interpreting other cat mannerisms. Paying attention to subtle eyebrow movements allows owners to better understand their pet’s nonverbal communication style.

Trimming Cat Eyebrows

Trimming a cat’s eyebrows should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Cat eyebrows, also called supraorbital vibrissae, play an important role in spatial awareness and sensory perception (Kidslovepets.org, 2023). However, in some cases trimming may be required for health or grooming reasons.

It’s generally safe to trim overgrown eyebrows that are blocking a cat’s vision or getting matted. Use small, sharp trimmers and take off minimal length to avoid discomfort. Never cut too close to the skin. Eyebrows can be trimmed if they are dirty or have debris stuck that cannot be removed through grooming. Apply light trimming just to the tips in this scenario (City-data.com, 2011).

Cats with chronic eye issues may need their eyebrows trimmed to allow application of medication. Consult your veterinarian first in this case. They can demonstrate safe technique and advise on necessity and frequency (Quora.com, 2018).

When trimming is required, only remove as much length as needed for the purpose. Never cut off entire eyebrows. Allow time for regrowth between trims. And monitor your cat’s behavior afterwards, stopping if they seem bothered by the trimming.

Grooming Eyebrows

Keeping your cat’s eyebrows looking neat and tidy is an important part of grooming. Here are some tips for eyebrow grooming:

Use a soft brush made specifically for cats to gently brush the eyebrows daily. This will remove dirt, debris, and loose hairs. Be very gentle and never pull on the whiskers. Source

Use a warm, damp cloth to wipe away any eye discharge around the eyebrows. Be sure to only wipe outward from the inner eye, never inward.

Trim overgrown eyebrows with small, sharp scissors. Only trim the ends, never cut the eyebrows too short. Go slowly and carefully.

See a groomer or vet if the eyebrows are very matted or dirty and need more extensive trimming. They have the proper tools and training.

Check for signs of irritation or infection around eyebrows like redness, swelling, or discharge. Treat any health issues promptly.

With regular gentle brushing and occasional trimming, cat eyebrows can stay neat and healthy looking. Proper eyebrow grooming is an important part of caring for your cat.

Health Issues with Eyebrows

Loss of eyebrows in cats can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem that requires veterinary attention. Some common causes of eyebrow thinning or loss include:

Allergies – Cats can develop allergies to foods, plants, or other environmental allergens that cause itchiness and hair loss around the face and eyebrows. Allergy testing and changes in diet or environment may be needed (Source).

Parasites – Infestations of mites, fleas or ticks can irritate the skin and cause scratching, infections, and hair loss. Treating the parasitic infection and any secondary infections will allow the eyebrows to regrow (Source).

Fungal or Bacterial Infections – Ringworm, staph infections or other skin diseases can cause patchy hair loss and scabbing around the eyebrows. Antifungal or antibiotic treatment prescribed by a vet clears up the infection so eyebrows can grow back.

Hormonal Imbalances – Diseases like hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s disease cause hormonal imbalances that can lead to symmetrical hair loss around a cat’s eyes and face. Treating the underlying condition reverses the hair loss.

Stress – Chronic stress or anxiety causes some cats to excessively groom, resulting in thinning eyebrows. Reducing environmental stressors and providing enrichment curbs overgrooming behavior.

If your cat is losing eyebrow hair, it’s important to rule out medical causes by making an appointment with your veterinarian. They can examine skin and hair under a microscope, run tests, and determine if an infection, parasites, allergies or illness are causing your cat’s eyebrow loss.

Eyebrow Hygiene

Keeping your cat’s eyebrows clean is an important part of grooming. Eyebrows can trap dirt, debris, and bacteria which can lead to irritation or infection if not properly cleaned.

Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton pad to gently wipe away any crust or buildup around the eyebrows. Be very gentle, as the skin around the eyes is delicate. A small amount of cat-safe eye wash solution can help loosen stubborn debris.

Trim overgrown hairs with rounded tip scissors to prevent poking the eye. Only trim what is necessary for your cat’s comfort and vision.

Check for signs of infection like redness, swelling, discharge or excessive scratching. See your veterinarian if you notice any abnormalities as medications may be needed.

Keep facial fur dry after washing and wipe eyes daily with a soft cloth to prevent irritation. Cats are fastidious groomers but may need help keeping eyebrows clean.

With proper hygiene and routine trims, your cat’s eyebrows can stay healthy and comfortable. Proper care prevents issues and keeps your cat looking their best.

Fun Eyebrow Facts

Cats’ eyebrow whiskers are highly sensitive and can detect even the slightest air currents. This helps cats be excellent hunters!¹ The eyebrow whiskers are generally twice as thick as the other whiskers on a cat’s face.

A cat’s eyebrows are more expressive than a human’s. They can move their eyebrows independently to express a range of emotions and reactions.²

Many cats have distinctive eyebrow markings that make them look like they have permanent eyebrows. The classic “eyebrow cat” breed is the Sphinx, known for appearing surprised.

Cats don’t have muscles in their eyebrows like humans do. Their expressive eyebrows come from having extra whiskers in the area.

It’s uncommon, but some cats can be born with no eyebrow whiskers at all. However, the whiskers usually grow back over time.

There are “eyebrow grooming” services at some cat spas and groomers. This can involve trimming eyebrow whiskers and using temporary pet-safe dye to darken the fur eyebrows.

Famous Eyebrows

Some cats have become famous purely for their expressive or unusual eyebrows. Here are a few examples of felines with notorious brows:

• Grumpy Cat – This cat’s downturned mouth and frowny face made her an internet sensation. Her low-sitting eyebrows contribute to her signature grumpy look.

• Colonel Meow – The Guinness World Record holder for longest cat fur also sported dramatic eyebrows. His luscious brows framed his piercing gaze.

• Samhaseyebrows – Named for his particularly thick and full eyebrows, this handsome feline has over 50,000 Instagram followers.

• Tardar Sauce – Better known as “Grumpy Cat,” her extra fur between the eyes gives her a permanent scowl. This cranky look launched her to fame.

• Jazzy Purrs – With black liner-like markings, this cat’s brows give her a perpetual sassy expression.

A cat’s unique eyebrows can be a distinguishing feature that captures the public’s imagination. For a few privileged felines, their facial fur has made them into bonafide superstars!