The Best Laser Pointers For Cats
Are you looking to keep your cat entertained? While cats can be harder to distract than other pets, we’ve found the perfect toy that will challenge them, both mentally and physically: the laser pointer. Most cats love pouncing after a laser dot because of their innate predatorial instincts. The laser pointer will satisfy your cat's love of the hunt and provide both of you with hours of fun. To find the best laser pointer for your cat, you need to find one that is easy to charge, because you will likely burn through the battery life. You also want to look for one that has multiple settings or modes so you can keep your cat entertained longer. And, it’s nice to have the bonus of additional toys that come with the laser to give your cat more exercise. Our favorite laser pointer was the JoyPlusOX, which works at a long distance and only requires one AAA battery. However, the JoyPlusOX doesn’t have the different modes that the Goopow one does, which was our second favorite because of its various flash settings. Read on to learn more about our picks and why they made this top list.
JoyPlusOX Laser Pointer for Cats
Let your cat play from far away
The concept of your cat getting exercise while you relax is ideal, isn’t it? That’s exactly what you’ll find with this laser pointer. The red light works up to 656 feet away, which gives your cat ample space for your cat to play. We noticed that the dot on this laser is stronger than some of the other lasers at an equivalent price point. On top of that, it only takes 1 AAA battery and is controlled wirelessly. We also found that the button is easy to hold down, so your thumb won’t grow tired.
Pros:
- While the product is advertised for cats, pet owners also found that their dogs love it as well.
- The design of this laser pointer makes it easy and comfortable to use for long periods.
- The laser pointer turns off automatically after being idle for a few minutes, which is huge for saving the battery.
Cons:
- This laser pointer is great for cats, but it’s not the best for formal presentations.
Goopow Automatic and Interactive Laser Toy
Bigger, better, faster, stronger
Bigger is better when it comes to some things, and this laser pointer is one of them. Most laser pointers for cats are handheld, which is great in terms of convenience, but it can oftentimes mean that they are not built to last as long. This laser pointer from Goopow is substantially bigger than others and built to withstand more use. We found that cats love how this laser pointer tests their preying skills. The laser stays in place for a few seconds then quickly changes directions just as your cat tries to pounce on it. Goopow’s laser toy will keep your cat occupied for a long time.
Pros:
- Though you may think this toy is designed only for high-energy cats, it works well for cats that are more on the lazy side as well. This laser pointer can make them more active than they usually are, which is great if you have an overweight cat.
- You can set the laser pointer to run for 15 minutes every hour and a half, ensuring that your cat gets regular movement and play even when you’re busy doing other things.
Cons:
- The pattern of the laser pointer doesn’t change, so some cats may bore of it after a while.
Enoctu Cat Laser Toy
Turn it on and walk away
This toy offers more than just a simple laser. We found that it works great if you have more than one cat as there are multiple different accessories on this toy for them to enjoy. The rotating base includes several attachments, such as feathers and ribbons that your cat will love to bat around. If you have a needy cat, Enoctu’s laser toy provides a stimulating distraction so you can get things done.
Pros:
- The charge on the battery lasts much longer than expected.
- The stand provides stability, which means it is hard for the cats to knock over.
- The laser moves in unpredictable patterns so cats don’t get bored as quickly as they may with other toys.
Cons:
- The size of this toy is much smaller than expected, so be sure to pay attention to the measurements.
Feeyowi Laser Pointer Toy
Charge it and then charge it again
With this cat laser pointer, all you have to do is charge it when the battery starts to get low. We found that it’s also ideal because you don’t have to hold the button down to keep it going – it stays on as long as you want. In addition to that, the laser can change shapes, which the cats love. Variety is great for them, so they don’t grow bored chasing around the same thing in the same pattern.
Pros:
- The multiple shapes will keep your cat entertained for a long time.
- The “on” switch versus a button is a game-changer.
- The light on this laser pointer is big enough for cats that don’t have great eyesight.
Cons:
- We wish that the rechargeable battery would last longer.
Diyuqishi Cat Toy
Some laser pointers only keep cats entertained for a bit before they grow tired of chasing the same shape around. This one is different. It provides various shapes for cats to play around with, including a mouse, a smiley face, a butterfly, and a star. When you’re ready to store the toy, it comes with a nice tin that keeps everything in one place. To charge it, all you have to do is plug it into a USB adapter.
Pros:
- It’s very user-friendly. One switch allows you to shift between the flashlight, laser pointer, and blacklight, while the other switch shifts the different shaped images.
- While this is marketed for cats, you may find that your dog will enjoy this laser pointer too.
- The brightness will help your cat see it from farther away than other lasers.
Cons:
- While this is a fun toy, we thought that the battery dies fairly quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use laser pointers with cats?
Laser pointers are safe to use as a toy for your cat as long as you do not shine the light in your cat’s eyes. The light is powerful and can cause damage to your cat’s vision and possibly even permanently damage their eyes.
Why do cats love laser pointers?
The laser makes the cat think it is prey, and cats have the instinct to chase their prey. Watch your cat while they play with the laser, and you’ll notice how they wait, watch, and when the laser moves, they chase it until they find the perfect moment to pounce. They think they are chasing prey.
Do cats get bored of laser pointers?
This depends on the cat. Some cats will chase the lasers for hours, while others may only spend 5 minutes before they tire of the exercise.
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