Are Laser Pointers Bad For Cats? Are There Any Negative Effects Of Using It? 

There is an irresistible connection between cats and red dots. Cats love to play with laser projections. But are laser pointers bad for cats?  

These are an amazing option to get your cat some exercise and a good laugh, but there is a chance that they might leave your cat stressed and frustrated.  

There are various reasons why a cat loves laser pointers. However, if you use it properly, you will know there are various benefits to it as well. 

Why Do Cats Love Lasers?

A feline’s love for lasers comes from its natural instincts of hunting and chasing. They are wild creatures and will want to pounce, hunt, and chase. You will be able to trace back these behaviors to their ancestors.  

The red dot all around the room intrigues them the same way a mouse does from behind the bush. This sudden movement can trigger their hunting reflex. 

You will notice your cat pouncing on it the way they pounce on a bug. It triggers their hunting instincts. You will often find your feline friend bringing you presents, such as small bunnies, lizards, cats, and mice. 

Are Laser Pointers Bad For Cats?

Laser pointers can work well for cats. But are are those actually bad for cats? Well, technically not. However, you have to make sure that you are enticing their hunting instincts and not causing them stress.  

You can use a laser to get them some much-needed exercise. Most house cats live a relaxed, laid-back life, so it is beneficial to get them even the slightest of exercise. But there are times when it becomes overly stressful for them. 

They want to hunt their prey. If they are unable to get the laser into their control, they get worked up and anxious. Some might get vocal about it, and some might exhibit aggressive behavior. You have to know cat body language to understand when they are getting stressed. 

What Are The Benefits?

There are various benefits of using a laser pointer for cats. Here are some of the benefits mentioned. 

1. Great Mental Stimulation 

Cats have been domesticated for quite a long time. However, they are used to catch mice, and their lives have never been boring. But if your cat stays at home for a major part of the day, cat lasers can act as a key stimulation and keep them from getting bored. 

2. Amazing Physical Exercise 

Cats have always been wind creatures. So, living at home is quite boring and monotonous for them. Wild cats get to sneak around, climb trees, track animals, and hunt them down. 

This kind of lifestyle makes them unfit and bored, and can also make them obese. They might even get bored with their physical toys, but they will never get bored with this red dot.  

3. A Different Way Of Playing 

Playing is very important for Cats. It teaches them social skills and boundaries. Moreover, they learn hunting skills, coordination, and also build muscles. In the case of adult cats, it helps them sharpen their prey instincts. 

4. Easy Way To Play 

Some pet parents have different ways of entertaining their cats. But when you get back home after a long day, you might feel too tired to play with them. This is where a laser pointer comes in. You can just rest a while, point the laser, and watch them play. 

5. Makes A Strong Bond 

If you know how to use it, this will be an amazing way of keeping the bond between you and your feline strong. You will be fulfilling their natural drive to stalk, prey, and kill. 

What Are The Drawbacks? 

Are laser pointers bad for cats? Well, it can definitely have some adverse effects on them. Here are some of those mentioned. 

1. No Satisfaction 

Cats are predators. They want to hunt and want to get rewarded for that. There is a thing about laser beams; they can never be tracked down.  

In nature, cats might not catch their prey on the first attempt, but eventually they will. So, if they cannot track the red dot down, they will get frustrated. 

2. Destructive Behavior 

Chasing the moving dot but not reaching any result can make your kitty anxious. And this can trigger their inner wilderness and destructive behavior. The furniture and carpets might have to bear it.  

To avoid that, ensure that at the end of the game, you place the pointer on a physical object that they can catch. Let them enjoy the victory.  

How To Make Laser Pointers Safe And Fun?

Now you know that laser pointers can have both positive and negative effects. However, you can take care of the red flags with some simple tricks. Here is how you can keep things positive. 

1. Make Them Win 

Like I mentioned, at the end of every play, you rest the dog on something like a plush toy or their favorite toy so that they can catch their prey. Make them win, and present them with a treat to reassure them of their accomplishment. 

2. Limit Their Playtime 

Keep the laser sessions short and frequent. It is better than playing for a long time. They get sudden surges of energy, and after a while they rest. It is better to keep up with their rhythm and not stress them too much or bore them. 

3. Watch For Signs Of Stress 

If your cat starts to twitch rapidly, take their ears backwards and see them panting, then take action. It is time to stop the playing session. Take a look at their body language for signs of overexcitement and discomfort. 

4. Use Positive Reinforcement 

When they win a game, it is time to present them with a treat. It is important to show positive reinforcement to keep them motivated. You need to understand their personality and how they work best. 

5. Aim consciously 

Keep the pointer on the walls or on the floor. Do not point it at their eyes. Even a small contact with the bean on their face can harm them. 

What If They Don’t Like Laser Pointers? 

Are laser pointers bad for cats? Not necessarily. But that does not mean every cat will like it. They might not want it pleasing to chase a light.  

There are various other interactive toys that you can use to keep them entertained and active. They might prefer a teaser toy to that. Moreover, there are cat-safe toys that make bubbles, so your cat can chase them. 

However, if you are unable to find the right toy, don’t get discouraged. You will find a way to keep them entertained. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are laser pointers bad for cats? Here are some of the most common questions people ask on this topic.