Cats and Video Chats: Why Doesn’t Clutch React to the Computer?
Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and meet my five hilarious cats: Clutch, Cyril, Alex, Zelda, and Zazzles.
Let’s face it, video calls were one of the best technological advancements of the last century. Working from home has taken on a whole new look, and for people like me who live half a world away from friends and family, it has allowed us to be right there in the room, even when you’re on the other side of the planet. I try to get a video call in with my parents once a week, although it can get a little tricky with the time difference. My schedule isn’t too bad, but as my Dad likes to say, “retirement is a full-time job.”
Apart from my Dad’s sharp wit, one thing I can always rely on during our weekly video chats is that Mum will try to talk to the cats. Usually, it’s Clutch, because he’s always hanging around downstairs with the dogs. Despite the fact that Clutch has never – not once in 10 years – given the slightest reaction to her waving, calling his name, and insistent calls of “puss, puss, puss,” she is completely undeterred. And in case you’re thinking that he might have some sort of personal vendetta against my mother, he is equally rude to anyone who tries to get his attention through the computer screen.
Screen Blind?
Clutch’s unwavering ignorance of this particular mode of communication got me wondering – is he somehow blind and deaf to digital images and sounds? Obviously, I had some experimenting to do. Naturally, I am completely opposed to testing on animals, but in this case, exposing my cat to a range of sights and sounds on the laptop and television screen seems pretty harmless!
