Pet Vision

Common Q&A about Vision in Animals

Below is a list of common questions and answers about vision in dogs and cats. Click on each question for more information.

Dogs and cats have very similar vision to ours.  Vision is the primary sense for dogs and cats, meaning they use it more than any other sense.  In fact, almost half of their brain is dedicated to processing vision. Just like people, dogs and cats experience life through their eyes. 

Yes!  They are able to see color just like us, but they don’t see green as well as we do.  Dog and cat eyes have a specialized area of the eye that also allows them to see better at night.  In fact, cats can see in 10x less light than we can!

Dogs’ and cats’ vision is very similar to ours, in general.  Humans are able to see more detail than dogs and cats, but pets see movement better than humans.  This is why dogs can spot squirrels from a long distance.  Many dogs and cats are also able to catch objects in the air.

Pets use their vision every day and rely on this sense more than any other.  Although other senses are heightened if a pet is blind, the other senses do not “make up” for vision.  Over time, if the environment stays consistent; however, many pets will do very well without vision.  Some of this depends on the specific pet.

Many pets will become less confident in new environments, like the dog park or groomer.  They may also sleep more because they don’t feel comfortable venturing out on their own.  Pets may stay closer to you throughout the day because it gives them an “orientation.”  They may be hesitant in bright or dim light conditions or if the lighting suddenly changes (e.g. “freeze” when the lights are turned off).  Some pets will also trip on small objects on the ground or on stairs.

Many conditions causing your pet to have decreased vision are treatable.  It’s important to determine the underlying cause of pet vision loss.  A full ophthalmic examination with one of our veterinary ophthalmologists (Dr. Davis or Dr. Latham) is the best way to do this.  After the exam, we will discuss the cause of vision loss and treatment options.

  • Dog receiving gentle eye care at Animal Eye Clinic
    Dr. Rachel Davis, board-certified in veterinary ophthalmology, gently checks a dog’s eye during an exam.
  • Cat receiving gentle eye care at Animal Eye Clinic
    Veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Rachel Davis gently examines a cat’s eye.

We would love to meet your pet and talk with you about any eye condition your pet may have. Come visit us!

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Other Common Eye Conditions in Dogs and Cats

Wondering what might be affecting your pet’s vision? Click on each eye condition below to find out more.

  • understanding vision in dogs
  • understanding vision in cats
  • Animal Eye Care Services Carmel