Unleash Curiosity at Cats & Dogs The Exhibition at the Indiana State Museum

Visitors can unleash their curiosity when Cats & Dogs The Exhibition opens on May 1 at the Indiana State Museum.

Continuing through Sept. 27, this un-fur-gettable new experience lets families step into the paws of their favorite furry friends and discover how pets perceive the world around them. Presented in English, Spanish and French, Cats & Dogs is supported by Subaru of Indiana Automotive.

“The power of Cats & Dogs is it’s all about our combined world,” said Brian Mancuso, chief officer of engagement for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “It gives the sense of how cats and dogs view their world and how that’s different from our view. You can learn things that make that relationship with your pet a little different and a little better.”

Created by La Cité des sciences et de l’industrie in partnership with Le Musée de la civilization, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Cats & Dogs is designed from the animals’ perspective to help guests decode their pets’ behavior and interpret their emotions.

This multi-sensory experience digs into the science behind a dog’s zoomies, decodes what cats are actually thinking and highlights how pets are surprisingly communicative for animals that cannot speak. Visitors will discover the unique body types and physical characteristics of a range of canine and feline breeds, from the tiniest Chihuahuas to the tallest Great Danes, and from the lush Persians to the hairless Sphynx. Plus, guests can challenge their reflexes as they try to jump like a cat and weave through a dog agility course.

Cats & Dogs also explores the relationships humans have with their four-legged companions and the roles these animals have played throughout history, from working alongside humans in various capacities to becoming cherished family members. Throughout the exhibit, visitors will also find fun facts that dispel a range of misconceptions about pets. For instance, cats and dogs can get along with one another, small dogs are not the most vicious dogs and cats do not always land on their feet.

Cats & Dogs is free for members and included with museum admission, which is $23 for adults, $17 for youth (ages 3-17) and $21 for seniors. Visitors can go to IndianaMuseum.org to learn more and save by purchasing admission in advance.