Are laser pointers dangerous for cats?
On One Hand: Psychological IssuesSome people believe that laser pointers are cruel because the cat will chase the red light endlessly but can never catch it. Cats are predators by nature, and seek to kill their prey in order to achieve satisfaction. The inability to grab the light could be potentially damaging to the cat’s confidence and mental stability. The laser can also cause damage to the cat’s retina if it is shined directly into the cat’s eye.On the Other: Good ExerciseThe Animal Advocate, a publication of the Humane Society of Kent County in Grand Rapids, Michigan, states that laser pointers actually make great toys for cats. They say that the pointers promote physical exercise and allows a cat to practice her predatory instincts. Animal organizations like Animal Friends of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, suggest laser pointers as cat toys.Bottom LineThe evidence shows that the main danger to cats regarding laser pointers is if the light is shone directly into the cat’s eye for an ex