Cats are curious animals. Have you ever watched those videos where you point a laser in their direction and they go crazy trying to catch it? And then did you try to copy the video? Except your cat won’t chase the laser pointer. Let’s take a look at the theories behind this.
History on Cat’s Eyes
Cat’s eyes are different from ours. Cats have better sight than humans. In contrast to human retinas, a cat has two types of retina – cone and rods. While humans have a better color vision (cones) cats are better at detecting movement (rods). If you are ever looking for someone to lead you through the dark, trust a cat. They can detect any kind of prey and pounce within seconds.
Why are Cats Obsessed with Laser Pointers?
When a cat responds to the glowing red light, it is all based on predatory response. They may believe that it is a mouse trying to run away. So, when the cat is running around they believe this red dot is their meal.
Cats find it hard to ignore this red dot moving incessantly around the room. This kind of movement excites the predatory sequence – stalk, pounce, kill, and eat – that is hardwired into our cats’ minds.
Why Won’t the Cat Chase the Red Dot?
Feelings of Fulfillment
Some cats are smart enough to figure out your evil plan. Because it is in a cat’s instinct to stalk and pounce, they are not able to kill and eat this red dot much to their fulfillment. Cats will happily chase that red dot around for a while, but other cats get upset after no success with the laser pointer. The inability to catch the laser-like real prey is the theory behind it.
Can’t See it
A cat’s vision doesn’t last forever. The reason why they don’t chase after the red laser is that they cannot see it. Take your cat to the vet to have their vision checked. Keep a close watch on your cat in her old age. You have to take care of them.
Another reason why your cat cannot see the laser is that you flashed the light in her eye one too many times. It’s easy for lasers to damage eyesight.
Every Cat Is Different
That’s right, not every cat finds excitement in chasing after a red laser. Some cats will go crazy at this red dot flickering around on the walls. While cats can be lazy, they find their activities to do. Find a different activity with your cat that is fun for both of them. Give your cats toys to play with to find enjoyment out of.
Hard to Engage
Some cats are hard to impress. Do you have a cat who doesn’t like to be around crowds when you invite guests. They are not impressed at the idea of a red laser as fun.
Are Laser Pointers Bad For Cats?
Well, it’s not a nice game, we’ll say that. It’s frustrating to cats. They don’t understand that you are just messing with them. Plus, a red laser could be bad for the cat’s eyes.
The Pros of Laser Pointers for Cats
While it is not recommended to play this game with your cat, some pros come out of it. Let’s take a look at some of the examples.
Great Physical Exercise
Every cat needs to get exercise. Unlike dogs, some cats are tough to take on a walk. Cats mostly spend their days lying around and sleeping. It’s not a good idea to let your cat lead an unfit life. It’s not healthy.
When playing with the red laser, cats run around, jump off the walls, and have a fun time playing around. That’s their workout for the day.
It’s Great Mental Stimulation
Cats’ lives have changed over the last 5,000 years. Domesticated cats barely get exercise, unlike wild cats who climb trees and race through the grass to catch their prey. For cats who stay home alone most days, laser pointers are what they need for that boost of stimulation. Cats who become overly bored is not good.
A Fun Activity
Play is important for cats. Playtime teaches kittens the needed social skills. Kittens also learn boundaries, hunting skills, and they build muscles. For adult cats, they can control their hunting skills better.
Have a Stronger Bond
When used accurately, laser pointers are a good way for cats and owners to bond. It provides playtime and fulfillment. For your cat mostly. Cats can achieve their desire to stalk prey.
Easy Game to Play
Many cat owners have very different games they like to play with their cats. However, pet owners return home tired from a long and hard day at work. They don’t have the energy to throw that little bell in a ball around. But, cat owners, that does not give you the excuse to never play with your cat. It’s in their blood to have fun.
Cats are bored when nobody is home during their day to throw their favorite toy around. Laser pointers are an easy activity. All you have to do is sit down, easily move it while resting on your sofa, or you can resort to technology. Cameras have red dots. Play laser games with your pet using your smartphone even from far distances.
The Cons of Laser Pointers for Cats
It’s time to list the cons of why your cat should not play with a laser pointer. Maybe your cat is being smart when he doesn’t want to chase a laser pointer. Here’s the list of reasons why it’s bad for a cat to chase a laser pointer.
Not Satisfying for Your Cat
Because cats believe that this is prey, they are not satisfied that they can’t catch this little red dot. Cats are natural-born predators. Every cat needs a reward after they have gone on their hunting trip. It’s frustrating because felines can’t track their prey no matter hard they try to catch this laser.
It’s Destructive Behavior
Your cat could become anxious when continuously chasing around this red dot. Not only that, but the cat could very well destroy your home as its leaping off the walls or off the sofa. Your cat could tear carpets or furniture, drop a vase, and even scratch your hand.
There is an easy way to prevent this from happening. If you do keep playing the game, end the game by giving them a treat. Cats deserve a reward for their efforts to catch the ‘prey.’ Every cat needs a victory.
Why is the Laser Bad for a Cat’s Eyes?
The major concern about teasing your cat with a red laser is the light that could very well cause permanent eye damage. Never point the laser directly in the cat’s vision. Accidents happen, but don’t make the mistake on purpose.
Typically, cat laser pointers and automatic laser cat toys feature lasers that are safe for human and animal eyes. That doesn’t mean that all lasers are safe to use. Be sure to examine models with warning labels indicating that they’re safe for pets.
Fits of Anxiety
Laser pointers have the potential to cause anxiety in cats. You should always think about your cat’s mental health before using a laser pointer on them. While it may be fun for you, your cat is not having fun. Think of your cat’s needs and not your amusement. It’s an unfair game because your cat doesn’t get anything out of it.
The anxiety or frustration that this game leads to a different emotional response that is more of destructive behavior. Your cat may even become aggressive towards you, other pets. They also may turn that aggression on themselves, possibly scratching or overgrooming themselves.
Someone Could Get Injured
Cats don’t always land on their feet. If they misplace their trajectory cats could fall on the ground and get hurt. It’s not safe for a cat to chase a laser up the walls or even when pointed at the ceiling. If you are going to play this game only point the laser on the floor so that nobody is injured. But, cats could end up sliding right into the wall.
Safety Tips for Laser Pointer Games
Here are a few safety tips on how to safely engage your cat when using a laser pointer on them.
Don’t Leave Cats Alone
A game of laser pointer should never be a solo game. Cat owners should always be present. Avoid using any laser toys unless you are there. Manually operating your cat’s laser show permits you to restrict the area of play. You being there safely keeps your cat from prolonged exposure to the laser pointer.
Avoid Tall Furniture
Avoid shining the laser on tall objects. Your cat could easily fall or worse knock something of value over. Reduce the danger and adhere to lower playing fields and places with more stable and softer landings.
Shorter Playtimes
Don’t play with a laser all day. Limit playtime to short increments. Catching a laser is tiring for your car. Your cats’ instincts will tell her to be ruthless in her hunt. It’s easy for a cat to overexert herself. If you notice signs of exhaustion, it’s best to take a break and encourage your cat to catch her breath.
Let Your Cat Win
Nobody wins in a laser tag game, but your cat should at least win something. Keep treats on hand to give to your cat for a job well done.
Use Certain Lasers
Never use modified lasers. That means, don’t use a laser that is not designed for pets. Don’t use high-powered lasers either. Lasers may be a fun gadget for you but they are dangerous for cats. Most laser pointers have less than 1mW of power.
Cat pointers are typically red. Red lasers are less powerful and can do much damage. The green laser is so powerful that it can pop a balloon or light a match if the laser is concentrated on the item long enough.
Spend Time With Your Cat
Remember this toy is not going to replace you. Make sure to spend some time with your pet every day. Cats enjoy that. Give their tummy a nice rub. That will get them purring.
Cats are Not Dogs
It is easy to play with your cat. But unlike dogs, cats are not easy to play with. They make not recognize the idea of fun. So, as kittens, introduce them to the idea of playing around with a ball. Cats don’t play as much or have many outlets, unlike dogs. Laser pointers are a good way to have fun with your cat. Just be careful about how often you play it with them.
As long as you avoid hitting the light in their eyes your cat can better enjoy the game. Be sure to store laser pointers in a safe place so cats won’t get them.
What Can I Do in Placement of a Laser Pointer?
There are plenty of activities that you can do with your cat. Switch to a different type of game that enables your cat to act out more of the predatory sequence. Because the cat is a housecat it’s tough to abandon their true nature from which their relatives came from. Always have playtime end on a satisfying note for not just you, but your cat. A cat’s happiness is important.
Other Games to Play
- Kitten Fishing Poles
- Stuffed toys (Cats love stuffed mice)
- Food Dispensing Ball
Socialize Your Cat
It’s very important to give your cat a social life. Well, you know the cat can’t call up their friend on the phone and talk to them. To get out of the house for a day, take your cat to a cat playground. Cats need social interaction to gain better social interactions with members of the household.