Laser Pointer for Cats. Good or Bad for Your Cat?

Cat owners searching for ways to stimulate their indoor cats or just those looking to give their kitty a new way to play often ask this question, "Are laser pointers for cats good or bad?".

If you're worried that a laser pointer is bad for cats you should be reassured by the fact that cats are less likely to develop behavioral issues than dogs when it comes to laser pointers. In addition, most vets take the view that a cat laser pointer is generally good for the health and wellbeing of your cat.

Veterinary Doctor, Claudia Sims says, "You can lead your cat to a treat with the laser pointer so there is a reward for their efforts. When you turn off the light the cat will resume its normal activity quickly."

So, what do you need to think about when using a cat laser toy to ensure it's a good experience for your kitty (and you!)?

Are Laser Pointers Bad for Cats?

Overall, a cat laser pointer is generally good to use with your cat as long as you use it safely and don't overwork your cat. You should never point a laser directly at your cat';s eyes and should allow your cat to 'catch' the laser now and then as well as making sure to give them a break to catch their breath.

If you are looking for fun ways to provide exercise for your indoor cats, then a cat laser toy is a great cat toy to have on hand. Cats require daily exercise to thrive, especially those cats that live indoors all the time. Giving them a run around chasing a laser dot is something most cats will respond to. But, as you know, cats are finicky and most toys become old news quickly!

The laser pointer can be a great addition to playtime for your cat, but there are some things we need to consider first. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of cat laser pointers, a few different product features, and solutions to make sure our cats are safe and happy during playtime.

Cat Laser Pointer : Pros and Cons

Cats require exercise and mental stimulation to thrive indoors. Proper enrichment prevents boredom and unnecessary weight gain. We can provide enrichment with engaging toys and safe playtime. 

Toys that mimic prey behavior are the most fun for cats because cats are natural-born hunters. Even domesticated indoor cats are hunters.

There's no doubt that cats love chasing a laser dot. The laser pointer can be a fun toy that keeps our cats active. But, lasers can also be dangerous and cause stress in cats. We need to look at the pros and cons of this toy to make sure that we play with our cats safely.  

Always monitor your cat's behavior. Every cat is different and has different needs.

Cat Laser Pointer - The Pros

Cat Laser Pointer - The Cons

Can a Laser Pointer Harm a Cat's Eyes?

Laser pointers can harm a cat's eyes, so always play with caution. Never shine the laser directly into the cat's face, and be wary of reflected light as well. Cat's eyes are more sensitive than human’s eyes, but laser pointers can be harmful to both of us. Keep a safe distance when you play, and take short breaks during playtime.

That limit is 5 mW in the US. Always research the product features before making a purchase. Some handheld laser pointers may be mislabeled. 

What Attracts Cats to Lasers?

As discussed above, cats are natural-born hunters. These wild instincts are ingrained. Cats are attracted to lasers because the small dot of light and unpredictable movement mimics prey behavior. Prey dart around quickly and this is attractive to cats. We can recreate the hunt, stalk, and pounce instincts when we play with laser pointers.

Cats may not see color well, but they can detect movement easily because their eyes are different than ours. Cat's eyes have more rods than human eyes. These rods are responsible for the detection of movement, and they help cats see quickly moving prey in poor lighting conditions. Cats tend to hunt when their prey is active at dawn and dusk.

The color of the laser doesn't matter much because cats don't see color as well as we do. Cats have fewer cones in their eyes than we do. Cones are responsible for seeing color and fine detail. Cats notice the laser dot because it is brighter, contrasts with the floor or wall, and moves quickly. 

You can apply this concept to any cat toy. Mimic prey behavior and your cat will be happy.

Using a Laser For Cats - Safety Tips

The 5 Best Cat Laser Toy

Laser Pointers for Cats  - Final Thoughts

Cats need daily exercise and mental stimulation to live a happy life indoors. Laser pointers for cats encourage them to play because the movements of the laser dot are unpredictable and simulate the hunting experience. Only use lasers that emit less than 1 kW of power, and avoid shining the laser at the cat's body.

A cat laser pointer is generally safe for playing with cats when used properly. Be sure to reward your cat with a physical toy or treat after playtime, and monitor your cat's behavior for signs of stress.

And, if you want to watch how much fun your cat can have with a laser pointer then GoPro made this great video:

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