The basic structure of the cat's eye is similar to that of the human eye. Both have a cornea, pupil, iris, lens, and retina. However, there are some key differences in the structure of the cat's eye that give it its unique vision.
Retina
- The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye that is responsible for detecting light and converting it into electrical signals that are sent to the brain.
- Cats have a higher density of photoreceptor cells in the retina than humans do. This means that cats can see more detail in low light conditions.
- Cats also have a layer of cells in the retina called the tapetum lucidum. This layer reflects light back into the eye, which helps to increase the amount of light that reaches the photoreceptor cells. This is why cats' eyes often appear to glow in the dark.
Pupil
- The pupil is the black hole in the center of the iris. It is responsible for controlling the amount of light that enters the eye.
- Cats' pupils can open and close much wider than human pupils. This allows them to take in more light in low light conditions and less light in bright conditions.
Lens
The lens is a clear structure behind the pupil that helps to focus light on the retina.
- Cats' lenses are more flexible than human lenses. This allows them to focus on objects at different distances more quickly.
Visual Acuity
Visual acuity is the ability to see detail. Cats have better visual acuity than humans in low light conditions, but humans have better visual acuity in bright light conditions.
Color Vision
Cats are dichromats, which means that they only have two types of cones in their retinas. This means that they cannot distinguish between certain colors, such as red and green.
Field of Vision
Cats have a wider field of vision than humans. This means that they can see more to their sides without having to turn their heads.
Night Vision
Cats are nocturnal animals, which means that they are active at night. Their eyes are specially adapted for night vision, and they can see in very low light conditions.