Cats are known for their agility, grace, and independence, but did you know that their eyes are also a fascinating part of their anatomy? In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of cat eyes, from their anatomy and behaviour to their health and communication.
Anatomy of Cat Eyes
Cats have exceptional vision due to having 6-8 more rod cells than cones in their eyes. They also have a reflective structure called the "tapetum lucidum" which reflects light back onto the retina, allowing them to see better in dim lighting and giving their eyes a reflective glow.
Cats have outstanding peripheral vision due to their eyes being set close to the sides of their heads. They are mostly green/red colourblind, but can see violet-blue and yellow hues, and are good at distinguishing between different shades of gray.
Cats eyes are protected by the same types of eyelids as humans, as well as a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane, which extends up to protect the eyeball from scratches or inflammation.
Cat Eye Behaviour
In addition to communicating emotions, cats also use their eyes to express their moods. For example, wide-open (large) pupils suggest strong emotional arousals such as fear or excitement.
Small (slit-like) pupils can be indicative of neutral emotions or predatory and aggressive behaviour.
Cat Eye Health
If you notice any scratches, inflammation, your cat closing an eye, changes in your cat’s behaviour or find any symptoms of an eye problem, it’s important to visit a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In conclusion, cat eyes are fascinating structures that play an important role in a cat’s life. From vision and balance to communication and health, understanding your cat’s eyes can help you better understand your feline friend. Take a moment to appreciate the complex world of cat eyes!