Looks like you just watched a really funny cat video with a cat chasing a laser pointer and then the cat lover in you woke up to search for this (or it got you all nostalgic about your childhood). Whatever it is, it is a good thing you’re here now. You do need to know that while playing with lasers might seem like a good way to spend some time with your cat but may not be the best idea. There are safer ways to play with it though.
The most common argument against using laser pointers with cats is that since lasers cannot be caught, the chase can be unfulfilling for the cat causing frustration. The second biggest argument is that the laser can cause blindness to the cat. Both arguments are true. (1)
Why do Cats Like Lasers?
Have you seen a cat around a mouse or a bird? This is because they are natural predators. They have a very high hunting instinct and a prey drive. And it’s not just with big animals like birds and rodents but even the tiny ones like bugs. So, if you see your cat pouncing on your sofa or the floor, you can assume that it’s probably to kill a bug. Some of you’ll must have even experienced your cat bringing dead animals as gifts for you.
Cats like lasers because they resemble moving creatures. For them, it’s an opportunity to show their hunting skills to the master and somewhat even feel good about themselves depending on the performance.
Can Laser Pointers be Good for Cats?
Yes, as we mentioned above, laser pointers can be good for cats. If used correctly, laser pointers can help with physical and mental stimulation for cats, bond with other cats in the house and even lose some weight. (2)
Cats in the wild are presented with enough avenues to challenge themselves physically and mentally. On the contrary, house cats can have a pretty sedentary lifestyle, especially when there’s no one to play or interact with them. This can not only cause boredom but also aggression towards other animals and humans.
Using laser pointers to play with your cat can help avoid boredom and obesity. Another use case of laser pointers can be using them for developing a bond between two newly introduced cats in the house. If two separate lights are used for them, they can act as a distraction for the cats. As they say, you should avoid using the same lighter in the initial phase unless you see signs of both cats being comfortable in the same room and with the same toys.
How to Use a Laser Pointer with Your Cat
Here’s how - (2)
Most cats will jump onto the laser from wherever they are sitting. However, depending on the lifestyle and the fitness level of your cat, take things slow. Even if your cat shows full enthusiasm, do not keep playing for hours.
Move the pointer like a mouse’s movement. Use all directions but let the movements be slow. Once the cat nears the pointer, move it a few feet away.
Make sure you let the cat catch the pointer every now and then. This will keep the cat motivated to keep going.
You can even let your cat stay with the pointer for a while once they catch it. They will observe it and study it. Move it slowly after a while and the chase will begin again.
It won’t take a Harvard brain to master the art of playing laser with your cat. However, there are some really important pointers for you to remember while playing – (3)(2)
Be mindful of the surroundings in which you are playing with your cat. Your cat may probably run and climb anywhere without thinking to chase the red dot but make sure you don’t put them in a position where there’s a potential injury waiting.
Do not, we repeat, do not ever point the laser directly into their eyes. The eye can focus a laser beam to a very small, intense spot on its retina, which can result in a burn or blind spot.
Get a laser with low-power light. There are even some pet-friendly versions available in the market.
Don’t overdo it. We know that you may enjoy the laser light more than your cat but make sure you let your cat play with other toys as well.
If your cat doesn’t like to play with the laser (yes, there is a possibility), you can get similar toys like a remote-controlled mouse, a wand-like toy with feathers that looks like a bird, etc.
Lastly, you should keep checking your cat’s behavior after the game. Since there is actual prey here, the lack of reward can be frustrating for the cat and can lead to aggression and anxiety. You can use treats or catnip at the end of a session to keep your cat motivated for the next session.
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We know that you’re doing everything to keep your cat entertained and healthy. But there can be times when your cat can end up getting sick either because of an injury or by eating a food item they were not supposed to. Now that you’ve searched for this article, it shows that you would think twice before introducing any new thing to your cat’s life and do everything to ensure your cat’s good health.
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Paul, T., DVM. (2022, August 25). Are laser pointers bad for cats? PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/news/view/why-are-cats-obsessed-laser-pointers-35474
