Cox Science Center shows the world through pets’ eyes with 'Cats & Dogs'

“Cats & Dogs” at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium explores the science and behavior of our favorite pets. [Photos by Cox Science Center and Aquarium]

A dog pausing to sniff or a cat watching from a windowsill could be taking in more than its owner realizes. Visitors to the Cox Science Center and Aquarium this fall can explore the sights, sounds and scents that shape their pets’ lives and discover how much they have to tell us.

Opening Oct. 10, “Cats & Dogs” brings an interactive exploration of animal science, behavior and cultural history to the Cox Center in West Palm Beach. The exhibit runs through April 16 and is included with general admission.

“Almost everyone has a connection to a cat or dog, but there is so much we may not understand about how they think, communicate and experience the world,” says Samantha Calabrese, the center’s director of marketing and communications.

The exhibit builds on that familiarity with hands-on activities that encourage families to experiment together. Visitors can test their jumping and agility against the abilities of cats and dogs, explore differences among breeds, and experience how these animals see, hear and smell.

Interactive games, simulations and sensory experiences guide people through environments devoted to pets’ physical abilities, mental and sensory worlds, and place in human society.

Along the way, the exhibit explores a conversation pet owners may not always recognize as cats and dogs communicate through scent, touch, sound, visual cues and body language.

“These experiences help families recognize just how much information our pets are constantly taking in and communicating back to us in ways we may not always notice,” Calabrese says.

The exhibit also looks beyond the living room to explore the relationships people have built with cats and dogs over thousands of years. Combining science, sociology and cultural history, it examines how their roles have evolved, including the work they have done alongside humans.

That broader look at our companions will extend into local programming throughout the exhibition’s run. The center plans to host speakers from animal-focused organizations, including the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, Zoom Room and VEG ER, Calabrese says.

The center will also serve as a donation drop-off location for Peggy Adams’ Fall Pet Food Drive through Oct. 31.

On Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the center’s Founders’ Day Festival will celebrate its 65th anniversary and the pet exhibition with hands-on activities, vendors, and special appearances by Bluey and Ms. Frizzle. The festival is included with center admission.

“More than anything, we hope the exhibition inspires curiosity,” Calabrese says. “When wide-eyed guests realize there is science behind something as familiar as the family pet, it reinforces that science isn’t limited to a classroom or laboratory; it’s part of everyday life.”

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is at 4801 Dreher Trail N. For tickets and more information, visit coxsciencecenter.org/cats-dogs.