Why Do Cats Chase Lasers, and How to Play with Them Properly

Almost every cat owner is familiar with the eternal battle between a cat and a laser pointer.

Something so tiny and scentless can keep a cat entertained for surprisingly long—despite (or perhaps because of) the fact that they can never truly catch it. This is precisely why there is some debate over whether it’s actually a good toy for cats. In the following, you’ll learn why cats chase laser pointers with such enthusiasm, and we’ll also discuss whether you should consider replacing them with something else.

The Appeal of the Laser Pointer for Cats

Laser pointers are exciting for cats primarily because they create the illusion of a fast-moving prey darting before their eyes. And as we know, despite living alongside humans for thousands of years, their instincts remain as sharp as ever—at least in most cases.

The rapid movement of the laser triggers innate feline behaviors, particularly their hunting instincts: observing and pouncing. The fact that the laser is merely a tiny point of light doesn’t matter because cats act on instinct rather than conscious reasoning. And that’s perfectly fine—it doesn’t take away from their value or intelligence.

Beyond this, there’s another important factor at play. The retina, one of the main parts of the eye, consists of two types of cells: rods and cones. Rods are responsible for low-light vision and motion detection, while cones help in recognizing colors. Humans have more cones, allowing us to perceive a broader range of vibrant colors. In contrast, cats have more rods, which makes them exceptionally sensitive to even the slightest movements. The moment you turn on a laser pointer, a cat can detect it even in their peripheral vision, and the movement immediately triggers their prey drive.

Is Playing with a Laser Pointer Actually Beneficial for Cats?

It may be surprising, but there is ongoing debate about whether playing with a laser is a good idea for cats. Opponents argue that laser play is a form of torment for felines. The issue is that the laser dot is an unreachable target. No matter how skilled a hunter your cat is, they will never catch it, which means their hunting instincts can never be fully satisfied. Many cats eventually figure out the trick and lose interest in the laser altogether. Others, however, may become frustrated, which can lead to problematic behaviors. Frustrated cats may exhibit destructive or aggressive tendencies. If you notice your cat displaying negative behaviors after playing with a laser, it might be time to put the pointer away for good.

To ensure that laser play remains a fun and positive experience rather than a source of frustration, try the following: When you finish playing, reward your cat with a treat or a real toy. This way, they experience the satisfaction of catching prey, even if it wasn’t the laser itself. Another, perhaps even better, method is to direct the laser toward treats placed on the floor so your cat can physically pounce on them. This also helps fulfill their hunting instincts.

How to Use a Laser Pointer Safely

If your cat genuinely enjoys chasing the laser and doesn’t become frustrated, then there’s probably no reason to worry. Chasing the laser is a great way for cats to release physical and mental energy while engaging their natural hunting instincts—something indoor cats, in particular, don’t always get to do. Used correctly, a laser pointer can be an interactive toy that stimulates both the body and the mind.

However, there are some essential safety rules to follow:

• Never shine the laser directly into your cat’s eyes! Even pet-safe lasers emit powerful light that can damage their vision, so avoid pointing it at their face.
• Provide other toys as well! If the laser is the only toy your cat plays with, frustration can build up. Make sure they have other objects to hunt and play with. You can give them a snuffle mat, catnip-filled toys, or a classic wand toy. You don’t even have to spend money—a good cardboard box can make your cat’s day!