  Cat states are systems in a superposition of macroscopically distinguishable
states; this superposition can be of either classically or quantum distinct
state, regardless of the number of particles or modes involved. Here, we
constructed an experimental model that simulates an optical cat state by
engineering the classical orbital angular momentum of light, referred to here
as an analogous cat state (a-CS). In our scheme, the behaviors of the a-CS in
position space show many similarities to the quantum version of the optical cat
state in phase space, for example, movement, rotation, and interference.
Experimentally, the a-CS, which has two spatially localized Gaussian intensity
lobes, can be evolved from "kitten" to "cat" by engineering the acquired phase
hologram. Additionally, we simulated the "decoherence" of the a-CS influenced
by atmospheric turbulence. The a-CS provides a reliable tool for visualizing
and studying the behaviors of quantum cat states in phase space.
