Cats have whiskers, also known as vibrissae, for sensory purposes. Whiskers are deeply rooted in the cat's skin and are connected to sensitive nerves, allowing them to detect changes in their environment, assess distances, and navigate in the dark. They help cats to determine if they can fit through openings, sense nearby objects, and even detect changes in air currents. Whiskers serve as an important tool for cats to explore and interact with their surroundings effectively.