Is the laser light dangerous for cats?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – you know those laser lights that people use to play with their cats? They shine them on the floor or walls and cats go crazy. I heard they are dangerous. Do you know anything about that?

Regards,

Sarah Matthews

Answer

Hi Sarah– thanks for your email. I’ve heard that the only danger could be is shining the laser light directly into a cat’s eye. I’ve not seen any documentation of eye damage but I’ve read that the intensity of laser lights is high. It is possible if the beam was directly at the retina for a substantial length of time, damage could be done to the retina. However, this is unlikely based on how cats move and play.
I think the laser lights are fine but I’d recommend not directly them at your cat’s eyes. Keep them on the wall and floors as they play.

An article that might be helpful to you is Cat Toys – Selecting the Right Toys for Your Cats Play Preference.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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