The Dos and Don’ts Of Laser Pointer Play

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Zoe watching the laser point

Zoe loves chasing the laser point!

Every time I visit Zoe and Dainty, I follow the same routine. I serve fresh food while Dainty waits patiently at the spot where her food bowl should be; I scoop the litter boxes, freshen up water bowls, and then pick up the laser pointer. As soon as Zoe hears the clinking sound of the metal toy, she perks up and waits for the tiny red dot to show up. She can’t wait to start the chase!

Laser pointer play is fun, but it comes with important caveats. Laser pointers are especially great as a starting point when building a relationship with a shy cat. It allows for play while keeping a safe distance from the new human in the room and can be transitioned to playing with closer proximity with time. However, for some cats, laser pointers become a source of frustration when they pounce on the dot but don’t capture anything. These cats will get bored of the laser pointer very quickly. There are also some safety issues to consider. The light emitted by the laser pointer can be harmful if it hits the eye. This is true for humans and pets alike.

With some care and attention, laser pointers can be an excellent source of enrichment, especially for cats like Zoe, who just LOVES the laser point. Here are some Dos and Don’ts that will help you play safely.

Don’t

  • To keep everyone safe, pay attention to where the laser point is directed and avoid eyes.

  • Keep young eyes safe by avoiding playing with laser pointers while children are around.

  • Avoid pointing at highly reflective objects; this will give you more control over the direction of the laser point.

  • Avoid moving the laser point erratically. Give your cat time to plan their pounce.

Chihiro catching the laser point on her scratcher

Chihiro Loves catching the laser point on her scratcher

Dos

  • Point the laser at an object the cat can pounce on and grab like a toy or a treat. Your cat will enjoy their playtime much more if they get to capture something real. With time, this will help you transition to playing with physical toys.

  • Pointing the laser at the scratcher will encourage your cat to scratch the acceptable scratcher instead of the couch.

  • Play on a rug or carpeted area - the fabric is less reflective than most floors. It has the added benefit of providing traction and preventing your cat from slipping, which will increase their confidence when running.

  • Be quick on the on/off button, or be ready to cover the light beam with your finger. When the cat “captures” the red dot, you will be able to quickly cover the light as if the dot is now under your cat’s paw. This also helps keep the beam further from your cat’s eyes when their face is closer to the laser dot.

  • Stand up when directing the laser pointer. This will give you more control and allow you to point the beam more accurately onto safe surfaces.

Have a safe and enjoyable playtime!