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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Laser Pointers Provide Needed Exercise
Cats need at least 20 minutes of exercise each day to maintain a healthy weight and to keep aggression levels down. If cats are easily distracted and become bored with other cat toys, laser pointers are a good alternative. Laser pointers give cats an opportunity to "hunt," and many cats prefer laser pointers to traditional toys.
On the Other: Laser Pointers May Be Harmful in Some Cases
Though cats enjoy playing with laser pointers, most will become frustrated if no additional play alternatives are available. Cats are hunters, and laser pointers essentially mimic the hunt without the benefit of the catch, which leaves cats unfulfilled. This can cause some psychological issues. Laser pointers may also cause blindness if directly pointed into a cat's eye.
Bottom Line
Laser pointers, when used correctly, pose little harm to cats. At the end of a play session, allow the cat to "catch" the red dot from the laser, or throw a traditional toy in to replace it. This allows cats to finish the hunt and avoid frustration. Always supervise children with laser pointers, and never shine a laser in or near a cat's eye.
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