Cats and cats have long lived side by side with people. Many cat lovers consider these animals to be true friends and simply adore them. Many signs and superstitions are associated with cats, which are firmly entrenched even in the modern world. Kotofei are often credited with mystical qualities. It is not for nothing that every witch necessarily has a cat that helps to perform magical rituals. It is also popularly believed that you cannot stare into the eyes of a cat. Where did this prejudice come from and what is the reason for this prohibition.
In fact, the explanation for this superstition has nothing to do with mysticism. This prejudice has a completely scientific basis.
How the visual system works in humans and cats
The human visual system is designed in such a way that his peripheral vision is poorly developed. This forces him to constantly shift his gaze from subject to subject. The central part of the retina of the eye allows you to clearly see the main image, and a person sees pictures along the periphery rather blurry.
In cats, the system of perception of visual images is arranged in a completely different way, one might even say, in a completely opposite way. It is not at all necessary for a cat to constantly focus its gaze on any object in order to see it clearly. If you observe any cat, you will notice that he often looks literally into nowhere for a long time. However, this does not prevent him from still being aware of all the events taking place at the moment in the room where he is.
If a person, when talking with an interlocutor, begins to constantly look away, then such behavior can cause misunderstanding and even resentment.
However, what seems to be the norm for humans is simply unacceptable for some animals. In particular, cats look at each other point-blank only in moments of danger and tension. If a cat or cat concentrates its gaze on an object for a long time, then this may mean their fear, anxiety, the moment of hunting and aggression. The animal becomes focused and ready at any second to take the most decisive actions that do not bode well. Therefore, many cat lovers know that when meeting their gaze with their pet, you need to try to gradually avert your gaze to the side, while trying to blink slowly.
Trust between a pet and a person is the basis of strong friendship and mutual understanding, so you should never forget that people and animals are arranged in different ways.
