Cats See Well in Dim Light

While cats can’t see in pitch-black conditions, they can detect light that is six times dimmer than what humans can see.

Cats' superior night vision and movement detection make them successful nighttime hunters. WizartoProduction/Shutterstock

Q: What can you tell me about feline vision? I’ve heard that cats see well in the dark, but I still think we should leave a nightlight on so our cats can find their way to water bowls and litter boxes in the dark. My partner disagrees.

A: I’m with you; we’ve placed night lights in strategic locations for our pets, too. Still, your partner’s position is valid because cats actually do see much better at night than humans.