What are the ears of a cat? - briefly
A cat's ears are highly sensitive auditory organs designed to detect a wide range of sounds, with the ability to rotate independently for precise directional hearing.
What are the ears of a cat? - in detail
The ears of a cat are highly specialized sensory organs designed for acute hearing and balance. Structurally, they consist of three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. The outer ear, or pinna, is the visible part shaped like a funnel to capture sound waves efficiently. Its mobility is controlled by over 30 muscles, allowing cats to rotate their ears up to 180 degrees to pinpoint the source of a sound. The middle ear contains the eardrum and three tiny bones (ossicles) that transmit vibrations to the inner ear. The inner ear houses the cochlea for hearing and the vestibular system for balance, enabling cats to detect even the faintest sounds, such as the rustling of prey, and maintain agility during movement. Cats can hear frequencies ranging from 48 Hz to 85 kHz, far beyond the human range, making their hearing exceptionally sensitive. Additionally, the ears play a role in communication, with ear positions signaling emotions like curiosity, fear, or aggression. Their unique structure and function are essential for survival, hunting, and interaction in their environment.