Cat ears and faces

[Leapers]

It might be a common question and sorry if it is a repeat but playing with my mothers cats today and she asks me (assuming i am an expert on all animals) what the extra little flap of skin on outer ear is for. Does anyone have any ideas? Googling just said it helped direct sound but i don't really trust the likes of yahoo answers etc.

But also above their eyes and leading to their ears most cats have a thinner patch of hair is it true that these are a location of scent glands with the thinner hair being used to help mark territory or an alternative reason?
I am fully aware there may just be no reason and it just is how they are but would like to know if anyone has heard differently.
Thanks

[jomifl]

Dogs have a similar 'mini ear' to cats, I have always assumed it allowed the ear to fold backwards more easily and not catch on twigs. If anyone has a better explanation I am all ears.

[tonyav]

I wonder if that's why cats always seem to want to rub you with that part of there head.

[Purple_Popple]

This extra 'flap' acts like an amplifier to enable them to hear the most tiniest noises of prey.

[wildwood]

And I believe you are right about the thinner hair coat over the scent glands.

[dundurn]

Cats have a number of scent glands. From memory the ones on the face are used for "other cat" recognition so if your cat pushes against you with its cheeks you are being included in the family! The one on the top of the base of the tail (and one on the top of the head as well?) are "place" markers - simply a "Kilroy was here" sign to mark territory. You can be marked this way as well - particularly when a cat brushes under your legs. It's also the reason cats hollow their backs and extend their tails when passing under furniture - they're marking their "home range".