Sega Toys Dream Cat Venus

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There are certain things that will always creep me out – carnies and public restrooms among them – but I have to admit that robotic animals of any kind might be near the top of the list. I’m not sure if it’s the lifeless, piercing eyes or the rigid mechanical movements that do it. Maybe it’s just the fact that no matter how much technology you cram under the fake fur they just never seem natural. Either way, when I saw the latest creature creation from Sega Toys, the Dream Cat Venus, it sent chills up and down my spine.

The Dream Cat Venus is actually the second incarnation of a robotic cat for the Japanese firm. I guess they just hadn’t scared enough children with their first pass, the Yume Neko Smile. Complete with mottled faux fur, this replica of a Norwegian Forest Cat is supposed to be the next best thing to Fluffy. Sega actually worked with the Tohoku University’s Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer in Northern Japan during the development phase to make sure they got it just right. I suppose I can see the connection between curing cancer and robo-kitties.

The Dream Cat Venus is programmed to respond to its human counterpart in various ways depending upon the applied stimulus. Now doesn’t that sound all warm and fuzzy? Apparently, if you use a phrase like “there, there” the Venus will provide a simulated purr to show its appreciation. I wonder if it’ll short circuit around catnip?

The Dream Cat Venus also has several pre-programmed movements including laying down, paw movements and several reactions to touch. They are triggered from a number of hidden sensors and photoreceptors placed on the cats body. The battery powered pussy measures 490x240x230-mm (19.3×9.4×9.1-in) and comes with a plastic comb for grooming. Available only in Japan you can pick up the Yume Neko Dream Cat Venus on July 30^th for around $110 equivalent. Hairballs sold separately.