Can Cats See Color?

There are a lot of questions that we get frequently from clients. This is one we hear a lot. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer and even to this day there is professional debate on this topic.

The eye is a complex organ which functions by allowing light to enter and project onto the retina, which is made up of light sensitive cells. The two types of cells are rods, for low-light contrast, and cones, which distinguish color. These cells convert light into visual signals that are then sent to the brain by the optic nerve.

Cats' eyes have both of these structures, as well as a layer behind the retina called the tapetum lucidum which reflects light back to the retina. The tapetum lucidum is what makes an animal's eyes appear to be glowing when you photograph them or shine a light on them. Evidence shows that cats may have three types of cones, just as people do, which means that biologically they may be capable of trichromatic color-vision. Studies have shown that cats are able to differentiate between colors, but often this depends on the size of the stimulus and the surrounding contrast. It is believed that any color-vision cats have would be much less vibrant than that of people.

On the other hand, the concentration of rod cells, combined with the tapetum lucidum, provides cats with their excellent low-light vision. And because those same factors contribute to ability to see motion, cats are often able to spot movement that people might miss. It is likely that cats can distinguish between several different colors, but anything they have lost in color-vision, they more than make up for in low-light visual acuity.

How To Take Flight With A Cat

Last week we discussed how to plan for car travel with cats, but what if you have to fly with your little one? There is a lot of research and preparation that goes into air travel with pets, and a whole new set of risks to consider.

Be aware of the risks associated with air travel. Before you even start planning a trip or move with your cat, it is important to know the hazards that can come with flying. Most of these can be drastically reduced by flying your cat in the cabin with you, which we always recommend. If you are travelling separately from your pet, consider a pet specific airlines, such as Pet Airways, or a courier service.

Many airlines will not fly a sedated animal under any circumstances, as the combination of repressed respiration with a pressurized environment can pose a severe health risk. Brachiocephalic breeds, such as Persians, should not be flown in cargo due to the respiratory hazards. All cats, but especially hairless breeds, should be protected from extreme temperatures. Some airlines offer temperature controlled cargo environments, but any delay between the end of temperature control and the cat's removal from the plane can pose a severe hypothermia risk. Many airlines will not fly an animal in cargo from October to May due to cold temperatures, and in some places heat can be just as much of an issue. Be sure to contact your airline for all requirements before booking travel.

All air travel requires a health certificate. For domestic flights it is best to check with the airline with regards to when this needs to be issued. Most require the exam to be within 10 days of the flight. For international travel there are widely varied requirements. It can take as long as a year, even on a strict timeline, to import a cat into some countries, so it is important that you educate yourself regarding the requirements. For the most current information, contact the consulate of the country to which you are travelling or the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

Confirm that your carrier meets airline regulations. While it may be nice to use a larger carrier for car
travel, with air travel this is rarely an option. Airlines have very strict size regulations with regards to carriers. For pets travelling in the cabin, the carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you and will count as your carry on. Many companies make airline-approved carriers, such as Sherpa, Bergan and PetMate. For pets in cargo, a hard-sided carrier is usually preferable. Freezing a bowl of water ahead of time can provide fresh water during the flight without spilling. And be sure to include bedding that smells like home to help your pet be more comfortable.

Taking your cat on a plane can pose a lot of risks, but this form of travel is sometimes unavoidable. The best thing that you can do is to ensure that you are well versed on what the airlines require and how to keep your cat comfortable for the duration of the flight. If you have any questions, please contact us via the comments (below) or by phone at 206-546-2287.

5 Things to Consider Before Car Travel

Chances are you may need to travel with your cat at some point. Here are some important things you should know before planning a car trip with  cats.


A Secure Carrier is a Must. This is both for your safety and your cat's. Having a nervous animal loose in a car can easily lead to an accident. For longer trips, it may be nice to get a larger carrier with room for food, water, a litter box, and moving around. It is important to acclimate your cat to the carrier before travel. Make it part of their everyday environment at home by leaving it in a central location with the door open. For more skittish cats, moving the carrier closer to their food every day, eventually putting the food dish in the carrier can help. Most cats will adjust within a week.


Never Sedate Except Under the Advice of a Veterinarian. Some animals are very nervous when traveling. The truth is that sedation is not always advisable and under certain circumstances can even be harmful to your cat. If you are considering sedation, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. There are a number of options, including Feliway, that can help make your cat more comfortable without the need for sedation.

While Traveling, the Escape Risk Is Greater. This would be a good time to get your cats a microchip and ID tag, if they don't already have one. Always make sure the microchip information is current before travel. Provide a current phone number, preferably a cell phone that you will have with you. Anytime you're staying in an unfamiliar place it's always best to have at least two doors between your cat and the outdoors. For example in a motel you could keep your cat confined to the bathroom or perhaps even consider a lead and harness for some. 

You May Need Veterinary Care on the Way. Always take plenty of food and fresh water in the car. Before you leave, get copies of your cat's current veterinary records. This is especially important for any animals with chronic issues. And if your cat is on any medications, be sure to take an ample supply in the original packaging.

Interstate Travel Requires a Health Certificate. Any time you cross state lines with an animal, you must have a current health certificate. This is issued following a veterinarian's complete physical exam of your cat, ensuring that they are healthy enough for travel and that they have a current rabies vaccination. For most states, these certificates are good for 30 days, but it is always good to check with the Department of Agriculture for the state to which you are traveling.

As you can see, there is a lot to think about before taking your cat on a vacation or a move. If your cat is staying home while you travel, consider a petsitter or a boarding facility such as ours here at Cats Exclusive.  Feel free to contact us via comments (below) or phone at 206-546-2287 if you have any questions.

Next week, we will be discussing the requirements for and hazards of air travel, including international travel.

Need help keeping kitty away from a forbidden area? Ssscat can help!

Do you have a cat that gets in behind your television or computer and chew on cords? Are there places that you'd like to discourage your little ones from getting into without having to wall them off or watch them constantly? If so, then you may be the perfect candidate for SSSCAT.

SSSCAT is a cat training aid that has two components: a patented motion detector device and a can of harmless, non-toxic spray. Each time your cat approaches the restricted area, the detector senses his movement and releases a brisk spray. The cat gets startled by the spray and vacates the area. Over time, many cats will come to expect the spray and begin to avoid the areas altogether.

You can adjust the direction of spray up or down. SSSCAT can also be used in outdoor areas where cats or other small animals can be destructive or where they may get injured. Applicable training situations include scratching, jumping on counters, chewing plants, playing in fish tank, stealing food, playing in garbage, jumping in the holiday tree, and many more!

We carry both the Starter Kit and the refills in our retail area. As always, please don't hesitate to call 206-546-2287 or email Amanda@catsexclusive.com with questions.