Smart technology for cats: GPS tracking and AI pain detection

As smart technology expands into pet care, new developments are emerging in both tracking and health monitoring for cats.

In the area of tracking, GPS collars allow owners to monitor their pets' movements via mobile devices. However, the German Animal Welfare Federation has raised concerns regarding this technology, noting that collars carry an "increased risk of injury" as cats may become entangled while climbing. Additionally, research from Scandinavia suggests that most outdoor cats do not wander significantly far from their homes.

On the medical front, researchers from the University of Hannover and Tel Aviv University are studying the use of artificial intelligence to detect feline pain. Because cats often hide signs of physical distress to avoid appearing vulnerable, the AI models are being trained to analyze subtle facial expressions, such as ear positioning and movement around the mouth, to identify indicators of discomfort.