The way that cats view and perceive the world is completely different from humans. Cats are natural-born hunters, so they have a set of eyes that specialize in catching prey. Therefore, their eyes and how they function are quite different from how humans use their eyes.
More research has to be done to form more definitive statements about a cat’s ability to see color. However, what we already know is pretty fascinating and may even cause us to see our cats in a different light. The best colors for cats are blue and yellow. Keep reading to learn why!
Colors that Cats Can See
The ability to see and differentiate colors is attributed to the cones located in the eyes. Cones are cells that sense color and help us to identify different colors. Both humans and cats have cones that can view different colors. However, humans have about 10 times more cones than cats do, so we’re able to identify a broader spectrum of colors.
The research community has some differing beliefs on the types of colors that cats can see. Some researchers believe that cats can see shades of blue and yellow, while others believe that they can only see blue.
Is a Cat’s Vision Worse Than a Human’s Vision?
Comparing cats’ eyes to humans’ eyes is like comparing apples to oranges. They’re designed for different functions and excel in what they’re supposed to do.
Human eyes can see a broader range of colors and also detect vibrancy. There are several theories as to why humans see colors. The most popular theory is that color helped humans detect better food. For example, a human’s ability to make comparisons between different shades of the same fruit can help them to determine which one is more ripe.
Cats don’t necessarily need that sort of differentiation. They’re obligate carnivores that hunt for food in the wild. So, they need eyes that are more sensitive to motion. First, the placement of their eyes is more on the side of their heads, so they have better peripheral vision than humans.
Cats also have more rod cells in the eyes, so they can detect the smallest movements. This ability is necessary to find small prey, such as birds and mice. Cat eyes can dilate much more than human eyes, so they can capture more light and see better in dim settings.
So, it’s hard to say who has better vision. Cats and humans use their eyes for completely different purposes, and their eyes can sufficiently help them navigate daily life.
Do Cats Have a Color Preference?
Color doesn’t have too much of a significant effect on a cat’s preferences. However, if you want to capture your cat’s attention, it may be helpful to use colors that it can see. So, if you’re looking to encourage your cat to play with a toy, try to find one that’s either blue or yellow.
Just keep in mind that there may be better tactics to help your cat engage in play. For example, since close objects appear blurry to cats, they may not want to play when you present a toy to them up close. Instead, try wiggling around the toy at a further distance so that the motion catches your cat’s eye.
Conclusion
Cat eyes are built differently from human eyes. One of the main functions of their eyes is to detect motion that can help them catch small prey. Therefore, colors don’t play as significant a role in their vision as they do for humans.
So, if you ever find yourself redecorating a room, you don’t have to worry too much about your cat’s color preferences. However, when you’re playing with your cat, it’ll be helpful to use toys and play in a way that engages the strengths of their vision.
Featured Image Credit: Winessyork, Shutterstock
