As apps turn real cats into digital collectibles, Dr Kelly Hood explains how to take part without frightening the animals behind the photos.

Cat lovers using apps described as “Pokémon Go for cats” are being urged to watch for signs of fear before moving closer for a photograph, with a veterinarian warning that a cat staying still does not necessarily mean it feels comfortable.

Apps including Cat Collector and CatchCat let users photograph real cats and turn their encounters into digital collectibles. Cat Collector’s website reports cats across 160 countries, giving the format a reach beyond any single market.

Dr. Kelly Hood, veterinarian at Pet Health Digest, explains that the important distinction is between a cat choosing to remain nearby and one freezing because it feels threatened.

“A cat does not have to hiss, swat or run away to be frightened. Some become very still. If its body is tense, its ears are pulled back or it is crouching low, staying in place should not be taken as permission to move closer.

Look at the whole cat, rather than whether it is sitting still enough for a photograph.”

The appeal of the games is straightforward: spot a cat, take a photograph and add it to a digital collection. Cat Collector creates cards featuring the photograph, a name and a place, with additional features including a personal map and shareable stickers. The “catch” happens on the phone.

Dr. Hood recommends five rules for anyone taking part;

1. If the cat moves away, let the encounter end

Following a cat for a better angle can remove its opportunity to leave an interaction. Never corner it against a wall, surround it with barriers or reach into its hiding place.

“If a cat walks away, let it. Following it until it stops can leave you photographing an animal that feels trapped. A missed picture is a perfectly acceptable outcome.”

Cats should be able to move away freely, and should not be restrained or picked up to continue an interaction.

2. Watch for tension before waiting for a hiss

A tightly crouched body, ears turned sideways or backwards, a tucked tail and attempts to hide can indicate that a cat is uncomfortable. Hissing and swiping are clearer signals to stop, but players should give the animal space before it reaches that point.
“People often notice the dramatic reaction and miss the quieter signs beforehand. You do not need to wait for a cat to defend itself before backing away.”

3. Keep the photograph quiet and brief

Dr. Hood advises players to silence game sounds, switch off the flash and use the camera’s zoom where possible, rather than bringing the phone close to a cat’s face.

“Do not clap, shout, play animal sounds or wake a sleeping cat to get it looking at the camera. Take the picture the cat is comfortable allowing, even if that means you only get its back.”

4. Do not use food to secure a better shot

A cat encountered outdoors may have an owner, a food allergy or a prescribed diet. Offering treats without knowing its circumstances can interfere with its care. The RSPCA advises against feeding other people’s pets for these reasons.

“Being friendly or approaching you does not tell you whether a cat needs feeding. Do not use food to draw it into a particular position for the game.”

5. Respect where the cat lives

Keep out of private gardens and leave cats undisturbed in doorways, windows and resting places. Avoid posting identifying details of someone’s home alongside a photograph.

Cat Collector’s own community guidelines prohibit content that harms, harasses or endangers animals, and advises users against tagging cats at homes or other private places.

“Photographing a cat can be a lovely moment in your day. The best encounter is one where the cat can carry on with its day too,” Dr. Hood adds.