Mayumi Kitakata innovates cat care with CatsMe! app

Mayumi Kitakata, a resident of central Tokyo, has found a new way to care for her aging cat, Chi, through the use of an innovative smartphone app called CatsMe!. This app, developed by tech startup Carelogy in collaboration with researchers at Nihon University, is designed to detect signs of pain in cats, making it easier for owners to ensure their pets' well-being.

In Japan, where pets are increasingly important in households, CatsMe! has gained popularity among pet owners. With a population that is aging and birth rates declining, many people are turning to technology to help monitor and maintain their pets' health. The app, which has over 230,000 users, uses AI technology trained on thousands of cat images to analyze feline expressions and behavior with an impressive accuracy rate of over 95%.

Nihon University professor Kazuya Edamura emphasized the challenges owners face in recognizing signs of pain in their pets, particularly in elderly cats who may be suffering from conditions like arthritis. For Kitakata, who has had cats throughout her adult life, CatsMe! provides a sense of security in monitoring Chi's well-being. By tracking Chi's daily activities and facial expressions, Kitakata hopes to ensure her beloved companion's health and happiness.

As technology continues to advance in the pet care industry, apps like CatsMe! offer pet owners a valuable tool in monitoring their furry friends' health. With its user-friendly interface and high accuracy rate, CatsMe! serves as a helpful companion for pet owners like Kitakata, providing peace of mind and potentially early detection of health issues in their beloved pets.