Can Cats Really See at Night?

Well, yes and no. Cats aren’t nocturnal, but they’re equipped with night vision that helps them see in low light. That said, they still need a sliver of light to make sense of their surroundings. Complete darkness is as baffling for cats as it is for humans. So, your cat probably isn’t plotting any grand adventures in total darkness—it’s likely snoozing instead.

Whiskers are more than just adorable features—they’re sensory powerhouses. These highly sensitive tools help cats detect changes in their environment, including slight shifts in air currents. Whiskers also let them judge whether a space is too tight to squeeze through (like those cardboard boxes they adore). Acting like tiny antennas, whiskers make nighttime navigation much easier for our feline friends.

While cats can see colors, their vision isn’t as vivid as ours. Humans enjoy the luxury of bright, saturated hues, whereas cats see more muted tones. They’re particularly good at spotting blues and yellows, but even those colors appear less vibrant to them. So, while you’re admiring neon signs, your cat’s likely unimpressed by your fashionably colorful sneakers.

Cross-eyed cats are a common sight in certain breeds, such as Siamese and Himalayan cats. These cats aren’t at a disadvantage, though. Their cross-eyed appearance doesn’t hinder their hunting skills or daily life. In fact, they can still dominate a laser pointer chase! So, if you’re competing with a Siamese for the title of laser pointer champion, it’s probably game over for you.

If you’ve noticed your cat’s pupils changing from sharp slits to wide, round circles, there’s a good reason. Their pupils adjust to light, helping them see better in both low-light and bright conditions. A cat’s pupils also dilate when they’re excited, scared, or even content. Next time your cat’s eyes look extra wide, you might want to grab the camera—it’s a Kodak moment!

Yes, cats are nearsighted. They struggle to see distant objects clearly because their vision is adapted for hunting nearby prey. This explains why your cat might stare at you blankly from across the room when you call its name—it’s probably just seeing a blur. Up close, however, their sharp vision helps them pounce with precision.

Cats beat us in the peripheral vision game. With a field of vision spanning roughly 200 degrees compared to our 180 degrees, cats have a broader view of their surroundings. This wide-angle vision, combined with their ability to detect fast movement, makes them excellent hunters. Those little critters invading your space during winter don’t stand a chance!

While cats don’t need glasses to enhance their vision, you can find plenty of stylish eyewear to dress them up for fun. From sunglasses to trendy frames, pet accessory brands offer options that make for great photos. While these glasses won’t help your cat see better, they’ll certainly earn you some extra likes on Instagram.