why do cats have slits in their ears

Ella

I’ve always wondered why cats have those little slits or notches at the base of their ears. My own cat, Luna, has them, and I’ve noticed they’re pretty common among other cats too. Are they just a quirky genetic trait, or do they serve a specific purpose? I’ve heard mixed opinions—some say it helps with hearing, while others think it’s just a leftover from evolution. What’s the real reason behind these ear slits?

Isabella

Those slits are actually called "Henry's pockets," and they’re thought to help cats detect high-pitched sounds more accurately. My vet mentioned that they might act like tiny amplifiers, especially for frequencies like rodent squeaks. It’s pretty cool how evolution fine-tuned cats for hunting!

Aurora

I read somewhere that the slits could also help with ear flexibility, letting cats fold their ears back without wrinkling the skin too much. My friend’s cat, Whiskers, always flattens his ears when he’s annoyed, and those slits seem to make it easier. Maybe it’s just a practical design feature!