Japanese Scientists Create Cat Ears That You Can Actually Feel

Once again, Japan merges technology and fantasy! A team of researchers from Keio University and the University of Tokyo has developed a new device that simulates cat ears in virtual reality, allowing users to physically feel interactions as if the ears were a real extension of their body.

Japanese Scientists Create Cat Ears That You Can Actually Feel

According to ITmedia, approximately 47% of avatars in VR platforms feature animal-like characteristics, such as catgirls and catboys. Despite this popularity, few efforts have been made to improve immersion — until now.

Inspired by studies on enhancing the human body with additional limbs or parts, the researchers aimed to turn a purely visual element into something the user can physically feel. The result is a system that allows virtual cat ears to deliver real-world tactile sensations.

How does the device work?

The key material used is BioMetal Fiber (BMF), a type of shape-memory alloy that reacts to heat. Inserted into silicone tubes, BMF creates soft actuators that bend when heated. These actuators are mounted on a VR headset and pressed against the user’s hair.

When the cat ears are touched in virtual reality, the actuators respond in real-time, simulating a tactile sensation that mimics being touched on top of the head. This creates a powerful illusion — the feeling that those cat ears are truly yours.

Testing the cat ear simulator

Several experiments were conducted with volunteers. Participants experienced various scenarios, with the device turned on and off, to compare the effects. In one test, a virtual knife sliced through the avatar’s ears, while emotional and physiological reactions were recorded.

The results were compelling. Many participants felt that, with the device activated, the virtual ears became part of their own body. However, not everything was perfect — some reported that the ears didn’t feel soft enough for a fully realistic experience.