As cat parents, we love to watch our cats run around and pounce on their toys. Using laser pointers as a toy for cats is not uncommon and many cat parents have often wondered about its safety.
Here’s what our vets have to say about using laser pointers to play with your cat.
Why do cats like to play with the laser pointer?
Cats are natural predators and in the wild, they usually chase smaller prey like rodents, bugs and birds. The quick movements of the laser pointer and the shiny dot of light mimic the movements of a small living creature. It’s this predatory instinct that also makes them pounce on small bugs and often bring you presents like birds, lizards or other small creatures.
Cats love playing with laser toys as they mimic small creatures
Are laser toys safe for cats?
Many pet parents ask this question and also worry about the safety of laser pointers as their cats love to play with them so much. Here’s what Dr. Dilip Sonune, Director of Veterinary Services at Wiggles had to say – “The truth is that playing with a laser toy is a fun cardio activity for your cat. However, you must be careful and not shine the light directly into your pet’s eyes. If the laser’s light hits your cat’s eyes directly, it can harm your cat’s vision and also permanently damage their eyes.”
A laser pointer can burn the retina of the cat’s eye within a second, he added.
Dr. Dilip Sonune suggests the following guidelines to incorporate when using a laser toy to play with your cat: – Use a low-wattage light that has a maximum power output of 5 milliwatts. The reason is that – the natural protective mechanism of the eye, like the blink reflex, is not effective against laser toys that have a higher wattage than 5 milliwatts. Severe retinal damage can occur within moments of exposure to laser lights with a higher power output -Never shine the light directly into your cat’s eyes as it can cause instant damage to their retinas -Do not shine the light on high walls or surfaces where your cat is likely to get injured -Do not overwork your cat with the laser pointer. For example, if your cat is usually sitting around and not doing much, take it slow and easy with the laser toy -Laser pointers can also affect your cat’s psyche. Laser toys or other light toys might frustrate your cat as they can never catch hold of their prey. Cats are natural hunters and if they are unable to catch their prey, it can irritate them. Hence, when playing with laser toys, give them another toy they would be able to catch. This way their hunting sequence will get completed
Do laser pointers have any benefits for cats?
Laser pointers can be a great toy for your cat to get some cardio exercise. Laser pointers can also help cats living in the same household bond with each other.
Obesity in cats has become a common health problem since most domestic cats tend to live a sedentary lifestyle. Pet parents can use the natural prey drive to keep their cats active physically and also stimulate them mentally.
Laser pointers can also help two cats bond with each other. For example – when the two cats are in the same room, the laser can serve as a distraction and the cats can get used to each other’s presence. However, you must use different lights in opposite directions for each cat. Their prey needs to be different until they get used to having each other around.
What’s the final verdict?
Laser pointers for cats can be great tools for cardio exercises but pet parents must be extremely careful when using these toys to play with their cat. Since laser pointers can damage the retinas of your cat’s eyes and even cause blindness, caution needs to be maintained. Remember to retrieve and not overwork your cat with a laser pointer as they may get frustrated.
Laser pointers have benefits for cats but pet parent must exercise caution
Use other stimulating toys
There is no doubt that in the list of stimulating toys for cats, laser pointers hold the top-most position. But there are many other toys that can kick in the natural prey drive in your cat and stimulate them physically and mentally. Motorized/electronic mice/fish or other toys that mimic the movements of a living creature can get your cat excited to play too.
If you ever have any other pet-related queries, our vets, trainers and nutritionists are just a call away at +91 8431620000.
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*Disclaimer: This blog is vet-approved and includes original content which is compiled after thorough research and authenticity by our in-house team of vets and content experts. It is always advisable to consult a veterinarian before you try any products, pet food/treats or any kind of treatment/medicines on your pets, as each pet is unique and will respond differently.
