Caring for Senior Cats
July 11, 2017
How to ‘speak cat’
May 15, 2018Why Do Cats Like Laser Pointers?
Laser pointers throw out brightly colored red dots of light that move at different speeds and change direction quickly. Since cats are natural hunters, those moving red dots satisfy their hunting instincts.
Unlike many toys that just lie around in the same old place for kitty to paw, the laser pointer can be aimed in different directions (up, down, or round and round). For your cat, this makes it seem like real moving prey.
Anything that moves and has some color is certain to bring out the predator in any cat.
Whether the cat chooses to chase the dot, paw at it or simply stare at it, curiosity will lead her into lengthy sessions of play and exercise.
Are Laser Pointers Bad for Cats?
Not everyone agrees that laser pointer playtime is good for pets.
Behaviorists say their biggest concern is that laser pointers don’t give cats the satisfaction that comes with the “capture,” because they will never be able to actually catch that moving red dot so this can be incredibly frustrating for cats.
Laser pointer playtime can be highly entertaining and rewarding for your cat as long as you follow a few important guidelines.
Guidelines for Laser Pointer Playtime
- Please don’t let the laser pointer become your cat’s only toy. You need a range of toys, such as wand toys, that your cat can paw at and capture.
- During playtime, have on hand some stuffed cat toys that your cat can easily grab or paw. You might even put a little food in some of the toys for kitty to retrieve as a reward.
- Once in a while, let the red dot of the laser land on one of these other toys and watch your kitty “capture” it. Be sure she has a firm hold on the toy before you take the light away.
- Never shine the light directly into your cat’s eyes. You can cause serious damage to your pet’s eyes by doing this!
When the laser pointer is used properly with your cat’s hunting needs — and safety — in mind, your pet will derive great pleasure from this intriguing but simple toy.
