AI App Analyzes Cat Faces to Detect Hidden Pain Signals

A groundbreaking new app, CatsMe!, leverages advanced artificial intelligence to detect signs of pain in cats by analyzing subtle facial cues that often go unnoticed. Developed by Carelogy in collaboration with researchers from Nihon University in Japan, this innovative tool is trained on an extensive dataset of expert-labeled cat facial images. With an impressive accuracy rate of over 95%, CatsMe! has attracted more than 200,000 downloads across 50 countries.

Cats are naturally adept at masking discomfort, a behavior rooted in their instincts to evade predators. According to the Drake Center for Veterinary Care, many cat owners may not realize their pets are in pain unless they're alerted to it by a professional. For example, subtle changes in a cat's expression can indicate pain, but only trained eyes often spot these signs. Kazuya Edamura, chair of the Animal Pain Research Group, emphasizes the importance of this technology: “It is difficult to tell the signs of pain in cats, and in many cases, people do not recognize that their cats are suffering. This tool is a very unique app that detects these subtle changes. Cats are not vocal about their pain.”

CatsMe! is tailored to assist pet owners in gauging their cat's well-being. Users can upload a facial photo of their feline friend, and within just 10 seconds, the app will assess the level of pain, categorizing it as “none,” “mild,” or “severe.” This rapid assessment is crucial for ensuring timely veterinary care when needed.

In a significant expansion of its accessibility, Carelogy has recently rolled out features that allow free users to access capabilities that were previously exclusive to premium members. This includes the ability to keep records for multiple cats and analyze several photos simultaneously. The app also boasts a handy calendar feature that tracks facial scans and highlights trends regarding a cat’s emotional state over a two-week period. This information can be easily shared with veterinarians or loved ones, providing valuable insights into pets' health.

The company behind CatsMe! is committed to democratizing healthcare for all living beings. Kenji Teshima, who leads the acute pain working group of the Animal Pain Research Society, states, “This cat pain detection AI is the world’s first that can identify signs of pain from a cat’s facial photos. We hope this technology will enhance the recognition and treatment of pain in cats.”

With its blend of cutting-edge technology and compassionate intent, CatsMe! represents a significant advancement in pet healthcare, ensuring that even the most subtle signs of feline pain are detected and addressed promptly.