Mayumi Kitakata, a 57-year-old resident of Tokyo, has always been an avid cat lover. With her grown son now living independently, her feline companion, Chi, has become her constant companion. As Chi enters his senior years, Kitakata is determined to ensure his well-being and provide him with the best possible care.
In her quest to monitor Chi's health closely, Kitakata has embraced the latest technological advancements. She has become an early adopter of CatsMe!, an AI-driven smartphone application designed to detect pain in cats. This innovative app, developed by tech startup Carelogy and researchers at Nihon University, utilizes a database of 6,000 cat images to analyze facial expressions and identify subtle signs of discomfort.
Kitakata's decision to use CatsMe! stems from her desire to provide proactive care for Chi. Recognizing that senior cats are more prone to health issues, she believes early detection of pain can make a significant difference in their treatment and overall well-being. The app's ability to reduce unnecessary vet visits, while still ensuring timely intervention when needed, is particularly appealing to Kitakata.
With Chi's comfort and happiness as her top priority, Kitakata diligently monitors his toilet activity and uses the CatsMe! app to analyze his facial expressions daily. This proactive approach allows her to stay attuned to any potential changes in his health and seek veterinary attention promptly if necessary.
Kitakata's experience with her previous cat, Soran, who succumbed to cancer at a young age, has instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of early detection and intervention. The loss of Soran has fueled her determination to provide Chi with the best possible care and ensure that he enjoys a long and healthy life.