Are Laser Pointers Bad for Cats?

When used properly, laser pointers can be a fun way for interactive play with your cat. But there are a few things to keep in mind when using a cat laser pointer.

Why Do Cats Like Lasers?

Cats are natural predators, and chasing after a laser pointer often satisfies their high prey drive—the instinctual drive to catch rodents, birds, and other animals.

Prey drive is the reason your cat stares at small bugs crawling on the floor before pouncing on them or looks longingly into the yard at the birds at the bird feeder. It is also the reason your cat may occasionally bring you “presents,” such as birds, lizards, or even small bunnies to leave on your doormat.

The movement of a laser pointer's light mimics the movement of prey cats instinctually chase.

Are Lasers Bad for Cats?

When used correctly, laser pointers like the Litterbox.com Rechargable Laser Pointer are not bad for cats. You just need to make sure you are using the laser pointer in a safe manner that fulfills a cat’s hunting instinct and doesn’t cause stress.

Here are some guidelines for playing it safe while using a laser with your cat:

• Don’t use the laser in a way that overworks your cat or allows them to hurt themselves. For example, if your cat is usually a couch potato, start with only a few minutes of laser pointer play a day, and don't make your cat move too quickly.

• Be careful where you aim the laser pointer. Never shine the laser directly in your cat’s eyes, and do not aim it at a spot high up on the wall. That can lead to injuries if your cat tries to jump higher than they should.

• With laser pointers and any other chasing-type toys, you should let your cat catch them occasionally. This is important for several reasons, including building confidence. No one likes to play a game they can never win, and the same goes for your cat. Also, for more sedentary cats, they will likely lose interest quicker if they don’t catch the light.

How Can Laser Pointers Benefit Cats?

Laser pointers can be great for helping cats lose weight and providing mental stimulation. They can also help when introducing cats to one another.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Housecats often lead a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to boredom, obesity, and aggression toward their housemates and humans. Obesity is one of the most frequently diagnosed problems in pets. Just like humans, pets need a proper diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

Prey Drive

As pet parents, we can use our cats’ natural prey drive to help keep them mentally and physically healthy. To get your cat moving, a laser pointer can be a great tool.

Bonding and Introductions

Laser pointers can also be useful in getting cats to learn how to live with each other. For example, when introducing cats to each other, laser pointers can offer an effective distraction while the cats are in the same room.

Each cat should have their own laser pointer light to chase, and the lights should be moving in opposite directions. Until the cats know each other well, refrain from having them play together with the same light.

How To Use a Laser Pointer With Your Cat

Depending on the fitness level of your cat, you may want to start off slow.

1. Start by aiming the laser pointer just a few feet away from your cat.

2. Move it around in small, prey-like movements until you have your cat’s attention. Imagine a mouse running around on the floor. Sometimes it runs in a straight line, or into a corner, or back and forth. These laser pointer movements will likely catch your cat’s interest the quickest.

3. Once your cat moves toward the light beam, move it again a few feet away. Remember to let your cat catch the light here and there.

4. After your cat catches the light, let them study it for a little while, then slowly start moving it away as though the “prey” is escaping. The race will soon be on again.

5. If your cat appears to get frustrated because they are never able to "kill" the laser pointer, try tossing them a small, plush toy, like the Frisco Squirrel Plush Cat Toy, at the end of the chase.

Cats can have different degrees of prey drive. Many cats will chase the laser pointer at a high pace for several minutes. Some cats need more encouragement than others.

If your cat does not seem interested or loses interest quickly, using the laser pointer in conjunction with catnip for a bit more excitement may help.

There are many types of lasers on the market—even some that are automated so your kitty can play when you are not at home.

What If My Cat Doesn’t Like Laser Pointers?

Not all cats like laser pointers, but there are plenty of other interactive electronic toys to help get your cat moving, including the SmartyKat Instincts Hidden Hijinks Toy and the PawsPik Chirp & Chase Cat Ball.

Or, your cat may prefer a teaser or wand toy you can wave in the air to simulate a bird flying.

You may need to try several different types of toys to see what your cat likes best. But don’t get discouraged if you are having trouble finding the right toy. There is always at least one toy that gets kitties moving for any budget.