Fur
Guard hair — the top layer is longer, coarser, nearly straight shafts of hair. This protrudes through the down hair layer. The top ends of the guard hairs are visible. This top layer displays the most colour and gloss, including coat patterns adapted to display or camouflage. It is also adapted to shedding water and blocking sunlight, protecting the undercoat and skin from external factors such as rain and ultraviolet radiation. Many animals, such as domestic cats, erect their guard hairs as part of their threat display when agitated.