Laser Pointers, Feline Fun or Frustration?

May 25, 2016

There once was a time when laser pointers were only used when making a presentation in a board or classroom. Today, these focused beams of light are now making their way into the pet industry as an "entertaining" way to get our pets up and moving again. But is it actually fun or frustration for our feline friends? Not all pet experts believe the laser pointer is the best toy for cats and in fact, it could be doing more harm then good. Read on to get the facts on the laser pointer.

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Play Importance

Playtime for cats may seem like a frivolous passtime to us, but there's actually a lot of learnin' going on starting when the cat is young. Kittens use play to learn important hunting and problem-solving skills, as well as coordination and bite control. They also learn about boundaries and social skills while building relationships. Plus, it helps develop muscles and keeps cats fit and at a healthy weight.

Physically, these points are crucial to the wellbeing of our pets, but did you know play is also crucial to the mental health of our cats? An important chemical known as dopamine is released in the cat's brain as a result of playing. This "feel good" chemical is produced by the actions of stalking, chasing and catching its prey. It's this reward-based reaction that has some experts claiming the laser pointer is NOT the best toy on the market.

Laser Play Problem

Because the laser pointer only provides a dot of light, the cat is never rewarded with the feel of it's hunted prey under its paws or in its mouth. This can lead to frustration and your cat acting out aggressively towards other pets in the home or even you. Sure it's fun to have your feline racing around, jumping and leaping up the walls, but it's imperative to give her a reward for all that hard work.

Laser Play the Right Way

Although, the laser pointer in itself does not offer up the tactle reward of the "kill" there are ways of using one. Follow these simple steps for frutration-free fun for your feline.

  1. Before you begin the laser play session, set up cat toys around your home; these will be your cat's reward targets.
  2. Take the laser pointer and move it away from your cat, zigzagging it around the room.
  3. Pause the dot periodically on one of the toys so your cat can feel the prey under its paws.
  4. Use the laser as long as your cat seems interested
  5. Slow the play down gradually and always end the session with the dot on a toy.
  6. After the session, give your cat a meal or some kitty treats to reaffirm a job well done. This will give your cat a sense of satisfaction and well being.

To Laser Or Not to Laser

Laser pointers can be a fun way to give your indoor cat some exercise. If you decide to use this point-of-light with your feline, then do so following the above tips. And of course, never shine the laser directly into your pet's eyes. If you decide against laser play, there are still plenty of fun and interactive toys on the market for all your feline's needs.