Are Laser Pointers Bad for Cats? or, are they Purr-e Fun?
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Cat looking at laser pointer
Pros and cons of these moving dot toys
Want to have a little fun? Play with your cat using a laser pointer! Your kitty’s wild instincts will drive him to chase after the elusive light.Andhis quick reflexes and intense concentration will leave you flabbergasted and laughing.
Butas “a-mews-ing” as they can be in terms of entertainment,laser pointers for catshave some downsides.Alwaysready to help you with important decisions like this, we offer here a quick look at both sides of the matter:
The pros:
- Cat laser pointersmay have healthful benefits.Indoor cats lead a pretty sedentary life, and chasing after a laser pointer can be great to get them moving.Sinceobesity is a frequently-diagnosed pet issue, laser pointer romps can help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight.
Cat hunting for laser pointer
- Cats love to pretend hunt.Natural instincts kick into gear when a cat sees that red dot! It’s a playful way to pretend to catch mice, birds, lizards and bugs.Whileyour kitty can get her kicks, isn’t it great that no animal needs to be sacrificed at the end of the hunt?
- They can help two cats learn to play together.If you’re introducing two cats to each other, try this: Each cat should have her own laser pointer light to chase, but move the lights in different directions.Later, as they feel more comfortable together, try having them chase after the same light.
- Play therapy is fun for the cat.We recommend finding at least 10 minutes a day to play interactively with your cat. Using laser pointers as part of play time can add to the fun and variety.
- It’s just plain fun to watchcats with laser pointers.This last one is for YOU. If you haven’t tried using lasers with your kitty, watch YouTube videos – and laugh your head off!
The cons:
Obsessed cat staring at laser
Many pet parents wonder:Are laser pointers bad for cats?As a matter of fact,there are a few concerns to keep in mind:
- They can lead to frustration and potential obsession.A study conducted by theNational Institutes of Healthfound that overuse of laser pointers can lead to frustration and abnormal repetitive behavior (ARB). The frustration is a result of not allowing your precious to fulfill her hunting instincts by catching and killing her “prey.” The ARB happens if the cat becomes obsessed with chasing the dot leading to compulsive behavior.
- Watch out for eye safety.The risk may be minimal,butif the cat stares directly into the laser beam it can lead to eye damage to the retina.
- They’re not a substitute for physical toys.Just like humans, cats need variety. Laser pointer lights can’t be caught, batted around, bitten or otherwise played with.Soif you use them, make sure you mix up their use with other toys and physical interactions with your kitty.
NOTE TO DOG OWNERS:Cats with laser pointersmay be fine. But dogs are not! Studies have shown that dogs are much more apt to become obsessed with the light and movement to their detriment.
Choosing the right laser pointer for your cat
Red lasers are safer for cat’s eyes
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies lasers.The higher the number, the more powerful the laser. So when you buy a laser pointer, look for Class 1 or Class 2.
- Use red lasers, not green.Green lights are absorbed more easily by the retina. Consequently, it’s easier for these lasers to damage your cat’s eyes.
- Buy the laser pointer from a trustworthy physical store.Incorrectly labeled classifications for lasers are common on the internet. Make sure you know what you’ve purchased. Your brick & mortar store is here for the duration so they’re more likely to be proactive in deciding which models to sell to you. They have to live with the choices that they decide to sell!
Safety tips forcats with laser pointers
Never point directly at your cat’s eyes
- Important but not obvious! Neverpoint the laser directly into the eye of an animal or person.
- Don’t point it at a spot high up on the wall. Little Socks might try jumping higher than she should and injure herself. Point it at the floor.
- If your cat is pretty sedentary, don’t play with it to the point of exhaustion. Be aware of his/her physical condition.
- Alwaysput the laser away after using it and keep it away from children.
How to play without frustrating your cat
Pouncing cat
The last thing you want is for your meow machine to go crazy and get angry that he can’t catch the laser light!Accordingly, use the laser pointer in conjunction with other toys to avoid frustrating him:
- Move the laser along the floor as you normally would, making “prey-like” movements. (Pretend to think like a mouse!)
- Occasionally pause the light on a toy mouse you’ve placed in the play area.
- Next, let your kitty pounce on the mouse. Turn the laser off while she finishes her “hunt.”
- Give her a little time to “kill” the mouse,thenreward her with a treat.
- Keep the game going until you feel it’s time to stop.
- An alternative is to lead your cat to a treat on the floor (without bothering with a toy mouse).
- To make the game even more exciting, use the laser pointer in conjunction with catnip!
- You can also use a “clicker” in your laser games. Train your cat to associate the sound of the clicker with a reward.Thenwhen you’re playing with the laser light, let her periodically “catch” the light while you click the clicker and give her a reward. This makes Mugsie feel like she has “won” – a great feeling for anyone!
Alwaysstay alert for any signs of obsessive behavior or frustration. If you notice anything suspicious, limit or stop the use of the laser pointer.Andtalk to your vet if you need objective, independent advice or input.
Alternatives tocat laser pointers
Kitty chasing a ball
If you decidecat laser pointersaren’t for you and your kitty, you can try wand toys, pointing sticks and telescoping rods. These alternatives all offer your cat the fun of hunting and catching prey. They feature a toy at the end of a pole or string, which you move around for your tabby to chase. Give him a treat to complete the game with a successful “catch.”
Alwayskeeping in mind your furry friend’s level of fitness and strength, it’s a great idea to engage her in physical activity every day. Interactive toys will get her moving, help prevent boredom and enhance her health.Moreover, think about the fun you’ll have interacting with your pawsome pal and making her happy!
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Sources:
https://www.dvm360.com/view/laser-pointers-can-cause-behavior-disorders-cats
https://cat-world.com/cats-and-laser-pointers/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8388446/
https://www.petmd.com/news/view/why-are-cats-obsessed-laser-pointers-35474
