A cat's nose is commonly referred to as its nose, but the furless skin surrounding the nostrils is more technically called the rhinarium. Breeders sometimes use the term "nose leather."
Here's a breakdown:
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Nose: This is the common, everyday term for a cat's nose, and it's perfectly acceptable to use.
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Rhinarium: This is the more scientific term. It refers specifically to the bare skin around the nostrils. The rhinarium is often moist and helps enhance a cat's sense of smell. It's also unique to each cat, much like a human fingerprint.
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Nose Leather: This is a term sometimes used by breeders, particularly for dogs and cats, to describe the texture of the rhinarium.
In summary, while all three terms refer to parts of the cat's nose, "nose" is the simplest and most widely understood term.
