why are lasers bad for cats

Lucas

I've heard that lasers can be harmful to cats, but I'm not entirely sure why. My cat loves chasing the little red dot, and it seems like harmless fun. However, I've read mixed opinions about whether this is actually safe or if it could cause stress or other issues. What are the potential downsides of using a laser pointer with cats? Should I stop using it altogether, or are there ways to make it safer?

Layla

Lasers can frustrate cats because they never get to "catch" the dot, which can lead to anxiety or obsessive behavior over time. My vet suggested ending play sessions with a physical toy they can actually grab, like a feather wand, to give them a sense of completion.

Julian

I used a laser with my cat for years until I noticed she’d start randomly staring at spots where the dot had been, almost like she was hallucinating. A behaviorist told me this could be a sign of stress from unfulfilled hunting instincts, so I switched to interactive toys instead.