Side Effects of a Laser Light Toy for Kittens

The typical kitten alternates between frenetic play and slumber. When Kitty is awake, it's important that you share vigorous play sessions, along with cuddles and love, to promote bonding and expend excess energy, not to mention promote good health in general. Pet-specific laser light toys are safe to use, if you do it right. Broadly speaking, "side effects" of using a laser toy with a kitten are mostly behavioral.

  1. Overstimulation

    • While watching a kitten in full-play mode is a lot of fun, some cats become so worked up they find it hard to control their behavior. If you reach for Kitty when she's in a frenzy of chasing the little dot of red laser light, you might end up with a scratched or bitten hand. Chasing the light stimulates your kitten̵7;s hunting instincts; in the heat of the moment, she might mistake your approaching hand for prey or another toy.

    Danger to Eyes

    • Laser toys sold for pet play are specifically safe even if they briefly shine in your kitten's eyes. Still, it's better to be safe than sorry: You can't be sure an inexpensive laser toy is within the recommended safety codes for pets, so avoid shining such a light directly into Kitty's eyes or face. The intensely focused beam of some lasers can damage a retina and even lead to blindness. Warn children never to shine a laser toy in anyone's eyes, whether human or pet.

    Accidents

    • One frequent side effect of laser light play is a bumped head or other accident. Kittens can become so focused on catching the elusive spot of red light that they forget to watch where they are going. The result can be a bumped head, a fall or knocked-over household items. Never shine the beam of light on stairs, near an open window or in any other area where Kitty might fall. Avoid playing in areas with delicate collectibles, furniture or household items that might tip over if bumped.

    Frustration

    • Stalking, running and pouncing on the laser spot is fun for your kitten, but because it never ends in the ultimate goal of this instinctive behavior -- catching and killing prey -- it can be frustrating for the cat. A frustrated kitten might release the pent-up tension on other pets, family members or furniture. Always finish laser playtime by providing a tangible toy for Kitty to "kill." A catnip mouse, a crumpled piece of paper, a cardboard toilet paper tube or a ball provides the kitten a satisfying conclusion to your laser play session.