On the same day that it opened in theaters, Universal notified cinemas that they would be receiving an updated version of the film with "some improved visual effects."
"This isn't a joke: Cats was rushed into theaters before being finished so a new version is being sent to theaters with updated effects," wrote Variety features editor Jenelle Riley. "How do you know if you have the old version? Look for Judi Dench's human hand, wedding ring and all."