Key takeaways
It's natural for cat owners to worry about their furry companions when they venture out into the night. You may be wondering, can cats see in the dark?
In this article, we'll dive into this concern, along with other nighttime habits of our beloved pets.
By understanding what drives them and how they navigate, we can help ensure their safety during their nighttime adventures.
Quick Navigation
Can cats see in the dark?
How cats' night vision works
Reflective layer: Cats have a reflective layer that works at reflecting light back to the cells that can detect light. This means they can receive more than 50% of the available light. (source)
Pupil dilation: We've all seen how our cats' eyes can suddenly become very wide and black. Well, this is their pupils dilating, which helps let more light in!
More rods: Cats have more rods in their eyes than humans, which helps with their peripheral vision as well as their night vision.
Other senses that help cats navigate the night
Why cats wander at night
Prowling and stalking
Chasing after insects or small prey
Climbing and perching on high surfaces
Vocalizing, such as yowling or meowing
Scratching at trees or fence posts
Common reasons cats wander at night
Territory exploration and marking: Cats like to keep tabs on their surroundings and ensure other cats know that this is their turf.
Social interactions with other cats: Cats often seek out companionship or engage in territorial disputes during nighttime wanderings.
Hunting and play instincts: The thrill of the hunt is hardwired into your cat, even if they're well-fed at home.
Seeking warmth or shelter: On cooler nights, cats may be drawn to warm spots or protected areas to rest. Similarly, in hot weather, they may seek the outdoors at night to cool off.
Can cats get lost in the dark?
Unfamiliar surroundings or new environments: Cats tend to stick to familiar territories, but if they venture into unknown areas, they may have a harder time finding their way home.
Distractions, such as prey or other cats: Cats are natural hunters, and their curiosity can lead them to follow prey or investigate other cats, which may cause them to lose their bearings.
Illness, injury, or stress: If your cat is feeling unwell, injured, or stressed, their usual ability to navigate might be impaired, making it more likely for them to get lost. This is especially true if cats run away when they are sick.
The influence of weather conditions on cats getting lost: Adverse weather, like heavy rain or fog, can make it difficult for cats to navigate and recognize their surroundings.
The effect of outdoor lighting on cat navigation: Streetlights and other sources of light can create shadows and distortions, which may confuse and disorient cats.
How to keep your cat safe during nighttime wandering
Gradual introduction to outdoor spaces: Slowly introduce your cat to their outdoor environment during daylight hours, so they can become familiar with the area before venturing out in the dark.
Provide a well-fitting, reflective collar: A collar with a reflective strip makes it easier for you and others to spot your cat in the dark, and it helps to ensure their safety.
Install a cat door with a locking mechanism: A cat door allows your cat to come and go as they please, while the locking feature gives you control over their nighttime access.
How to prepare your cat for nighttime outings: Make sure your cat is comfortable with their surroundings and understands the boundaries of their territory before allowing them to explore at night.
Indoor-only cats versus outdoor cats: Weigh the pros and cons of keeping your cat indoors at all times or allowing them supervised outdoor access.
How to create a safe outdoor space for nighttime exploration: Provide a secure and well-lit area for your cat to explore at night, including plenty of hiding spots and climbing opportunities.
When your cat goes missing at night
Steps to take if your cat goes missing
1.
Thoroughly search your property and immediate surroundings: Begin by looking in your yard, nearby bushes, and under porches or sheds. Cats are experts at hiding, so be thorough in your search.
2.
Notify neighbors and create lost cat flyers: Inform your neighbors about your missing cat and ask them to keep an eye out. Create a lost cat flyer with a clear photo, physical description, and contact information. Distribute the flyers in your neighborhood and post them on community bulletin boards.
3.
Check local animal shelters and online communities: Contact nearby animal shelters, veterinarians, and rescue organizations to report your missing cat. Join local lost and found pet groups on social media and post your cat's information.
4.
**Start a PetRadar search: **Our team of pet lovers have reunited over 10,000 cats with their owners by utilizing social media.
FAQ
Can cats see in complete darkness?
No, cats cannot see in complete darkness. However, they do have very advanced night vision meaning they can see in very low-light conditions.
Are cats ok in the dark?
Yes, cats are more than okay in the dark! They have great night vision and lots of other advanced senses that help them navigate the dark.
Do cats get scared outside in the dark?
No, cats will not get scared outside in the dark. They have fantastic night vision which means they’ll find it easy to navigate the outside world at night.
Can cats find their way home?
Yes, cats can find their way home. They have excellent eyesight, a strong sense of smell, and fantastic hearing. These senses help them understand their surroundings and navigate their way back home.
Should I let my cat sleep outside at night?
If your cat is used to the outdoors, letting them sleep outside should be fine. However, it’s important they have access to shelter so having a cat door or catflap is important.
Can cats get lost in the dark?
It’s unlikely that your cat will get lost in the dark. This is because they have strong senses, like eyesight, hearing, and smell, that helps them understand their surroundings at night.
Final thoughts
Written by
In this blog, I combine my two areas of expertise: pets and writing. I share my personal experiences alongside plenty of animal behavior research to help owners look after their pets. I have always lived with furry friends and am now a loving cat mum to two orange kitties.
