The ability of felines to perceive images displayed on digital devices, such as mobile telephones, is a topic of ongoing scientific inquiry. A cat’s visual system differs significantly from a human’s. The feline retina possesses a higher concentration of rod cells, which enhance night vision, and a lower concentration of cone cells, which are responsible for color perception. Consequently, the world appears differently to cats, particularly in terms of color and image resolution, than it does to humans. A factor influencing whether a cat notices images on a phone is refresh rate, since cats can perceive motion at higher refresh rates than humans. Therefore, a phone screen with a lower refresh rate may appear to flicker to a cat, rather than display a smooth image.
Understanding the feline visual system is crucial for enriching environmental design and interactive technologies intended for cats. By knowing what cats can and cannot see, designers can create stimulating and appropriate digital content. Historically, research into animal vision has lagged behind research into human vision, yet advancements in veterinary ophthalmology and animal behavior are helping bridge this gap. Comprehending feline visual capabilities benefits pet owners and researchers alike by improving our ability to offer appropriate environments and enrichment opportunities. This understanding also has implications for designing automated pet toys and interactive digital displays tailored to feline visual sensitivities.
