Imagine a world where your cat door not only lets your feline friend in and out but also recognizes them, keeps unwanted animals out, and even monitors their behavior. With advancements in AI and computer vision technology, this is no longer a futuristic dream but a present-day reality.
How AI and Computer Vision Work in Cat Doors
Traditional cat doors provided basic access, while microchip-activated doors added a layer of security by ensuring only pets with the correct chip could enter. Now, AI-powered cat doors take this further, using computer vision to identify individual pets by their appearance, behavior, and even gait.
AI-powered cat doors are equipped with cameras and sensors that capture images and videos of approaching animals. Computer vision algorithms analyze these images to:
- Recognize your cat and differentiate it from other animals like raccoons or stray cats.
- Detect specific behaviors, such as whether your cat is carrying prey.
- Monitor your cat’s activity patterns and send updates to your phone.
(As a side note, our team at JVR Strategies placed cameras in animal shelters over five years ago to capture images of cats and kittens for computer vision research. With technological advancements, we are eager to revisit and expand on our past research endeavors. This connects to our commitment at JVR Strategies to leveraging data-driven solutions for animal welfare, making technology an integral part of improving outcomes for animals, shelters, and pet owners alike.)
AI-Powered Cat Doors and Computer Vision for Modern Pet Owners
We couldn’t help but showcase the following AI-powered cat doors. Why? Because we happen to know quite a few people who would love to have cats not bring in unwanted prey into their homes. Yes, one solution would be to keep cats indoors or get a cat fence, but even with that cat fence, we’ve seen cats bring in all sorts of critters. So, here are some examples of using AI and computer vision to radically improve cat doors.
Pawly: The AI-Enhanced Cat Door
Pawly, a Swiss startup founded by engineers from ETH Zurich, has introduced the first cat door equipped with prey detection capabilities. Utilizing advanced AI algorithms and a night-vision camera, the Pawly Door identifies when a cat is attempting to enter with prey and prevents access accordingly. This system ensures that only cats without prey can enter, maintaining a cleaner and more hygienic home environment.
OnlyCat: The Smart Microchip Cat Flap
OnlyCat offers a microchip cat flap that combines AI-powered vision technology with app connectivity. Its advanced system detects the presence of prey in real-time and temporarily locks the door to prevent entry. Users can control access for specific cats, keep intruders out, and receive video notifications of their cats’ activities, all through a user-friendly app.
ZeroMOUSE: Upgrading Existing Cat Flaps
ZeroMOUSE provides an AI-driven device that upgrades existing microchip cat flaps with prey detection capabilities. Compatible with various cat flap models, ZeroMOUSE uses motion and light sensors to capture images of the cat’s face as it approaches. These images are analyzed by an AI system to determine if the cat is carrying prey, and if so, the device blocks entry. The system also offers night vision capabilities and an app for monitoring and updates.
Flappie: AI-Powered Prey Detection
Flappie is another innovative cat door that employs AI to prevent cats from bringing in unwanted prey. Equipped with a motion sensor and night-vision camera, Flappie detects when a cat is attempting to enter with prey and automatically locks the door. The company has developed a proprietary dataset to train its AI system, achieving an accuracy rate of over 90%.
Advancing Animal Welfare Through Technology
These advancements in AI and computer vision are transforming the pet industry by providing intelligent solutions that enhance the living environment for both pets and their people. By preventing the entry of unwanted prey, these smart cat doors offer a practical application of technology that addresses a common concern among people with indoor/outdoor cats. As technology continues to advance, even more sophisticated solutions will further support the well-being of our furry companions.
JVR Strategies has been pioneering data-driven animal welfare solutions since 2011, integrating technology into improving animal outcomes. We are dedicated to leveraging innovative technology to improve animal welfare, and smart cat doors exemplify how modern tools can enhance the lives of animals. Learn more about our technology-driven consulting services for animal welfare organizations and pet-related industries.