Domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) at night. The eyes of cats have a reflective layer of tissue behind the retina known as the tapetum lucidum. This layer reflects light back on to the retina to improve vision during low light conditions. The reflective effect can be seen when a bright light, such as a camera flash or car headlight, is shone onto the eyes. The tapetum lucidum is found in most nocturnal vertebrates.