Your feline friend will be bouncing up the walls (in a good way) with the latest cat laser toys. When it comes to the best cat toys there's a whole host of interactive playthings that engage your cat's hunting instincts. So if Mr Fluffykins has become a fur-midable force of mischief, it could be boredom that's easily alleviated by providing a variety of mentally stimulating toys.
Cat laser toys offer interactive and randomised play, mimicking prey. Unlike traditional toys, they engage cats from a distance, which gives indoor cats all-important exercise. There are pointer pens, wall projections and toys that cast multiple light beams. Some laser cat toys are manually operated, giving you and your pet valuable bonding time. Alternatively, an automatic interactive cat toy is so important for cats who are home alone all day as this type of toy will play with your pet.
Best cat laser toys at a glance:
• Best handheld laser pointer: VOVIGGOL 7 in 1 Cat Toys LED Light Pointer – View on Amazon UK
• Best laser toy for energetic cats: Dreamon 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy – View on Amazon UK
• Best automatic rotating laser: PetSafe FroliCat Zip Automated Laser Light Cat Toy – View on Pets At Home
Safety and supervision are essential with some of these toys in order to prevent your cat from becoming overly obsessed or frustrated. Opt for low-powered lasers and never shine the light directly in your cat's eyes. Also, it's especially vital to provide a variety of playthings, including toys that allow your cat to pounce, chase and physically interact. Indoor cats benefit from toys that help them enact their natural behaviours, for example a cat tower enables them to perch up high. Cat laser toys may not be suitable for all cats, particularly those with certain behavioural or health issues.
If you've ever noticed your cat hissing at their own reflection, then consider them on the sensitive side and perhaps a laser toy isn't the best product for them. Alternatively, if you've got a bored indoor cat that's practically swinging from the ceiling fan, then this type of interactive cat toy could be a game-changer.
Best cat laser toys
Best handheld laser pointer
The VOVIGGOL 7 in 1 Cat Toys LED Light Pointer casts five red chasing patterns by scrolling the pointer nib. Choose from a standard dot, smile, mouse, butterfly or star. In addition, there are UV light and flashlight options which are super useful for you as well as your pet. This portable cat toy can be clipped to your pocket, just like a pen. The end is a USB stick that can be plugged into a USB port for charging so no cables are required.
Customer review: "For such a reasonably priced item this has been amazing. It has not yet failed to catch and keep our kittens attention. He loves it and changing the shape helps to draw his attention back. Great for helping to wear the little ball of energy out."
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Convenient charging
- Multifunctional
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive cats
Best laser toy for energetic cats
Make your cat 'beam' with excitement with the Dreamon 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy. This smart feline robot features a chasing light, feather-catching, and a ball track. It offers three speed settings, with a gentle mode for sensitive cats. You can activate all functions at once or individually. The adorable kitty head illuminates, spins, and emits a safe light point for your cat to pursue. The sturdy base stand is easily installed, allowing you to place this toy on both the sofa and the floor.
Customer review: "The main attraction for this purchase was the laser – which is very good. The cat loves it and even when he gets a little tired, he still watches it go. Other than that, the charging time is fine, I just charge it every few days and it lasts well, it’s usually on two – three times a day. I was hesitant at first but I have to say this has genuinely been money well spent."
Pros
- Multiple activities
- Activate more than one activity at once
- Robust
Cons
- Don't position near anything that could break
Best automatic rotating laser
www.petsathome.com
The PetSafe FroliCat Zip Automated Laser Light Cat Toy is totally pawsome fun. The Zip glides across the floor, twirling and rotating to keep your cat intrigued and active. This compact robot autonomously manoeuvres out of corners and from beneath furniture. It's hours of entertainment for one or more cats as they eagerly pursue the Zip – and you'll delight in observing their pursuit.
Customer review: "My cat is six months she loves lasers. The first few times she was hesitant but observant with it she now absolutely loves it and is playing with it right now, it's a great distraction and hilarious to watch them try catch, overall very good."
Pros
- Suitable for all cats
- Automatic floor toy
- Perfect for a multiple cat household
Cons
- Supervise your cat when it plays with this toy
Best laser ball toy for cats
www.fruugo.co.uk
Let the good times roll with the Flash Laser Tease Cat Ball. The ball bursts into life with a press of a button and produces a beam of light to peak your cat's interest. It intelligently avoids obstacles so your cat can play with this somewhat independently, though we do advise some level of supervision. It rolls best on a hard floor and may not roll as well on thick carpet. This laser ball is fully charged in one-and-a-half-hours and provides four hours of play.
Pros
- Robust ABS material for rough play
- Automatic play
Cons
- No product reviews
Best wall-mounted laser
www.ebay.co.uk
Develop your cat's natural hunting instinct with the New Trixie Moving Light Cat Laser Toy. This toy can be hand-held or wall-mounted with a suction cup. It has two levels of difficulty, a great design feature if your cat is feeling particularly sprightly. Wundapets recommend that you give your pet a treat after playing with this moving light toy to give them a feeling of success.
Customer review: "My cats love this item. Second one I have bought. Purr-fect."
Pros
- Versatile
- Cheaper to buy two
Cons
- Shuts off after only five minutes
Best multi-pattern laser pen
The Toozey Cat Toys LED Light Pointer is a versatile plaything. Smaller than a pen at just 12cm in length. This 30g LED light pointer has seven functions, both fun and practical. Use it for projection games, play, night reading, evening walks and more. Switch between white, ultra violet and red light modes. The red light mode casts a safe and fun patterned beam for cats to chase and pounce on. Some reviews comment that they've used the UV light to show up dust, dirt and grease around the home.
Customer review: "Cat loves it right off the bat, so it’s a 5/5 from her. And for me, I think it’s better than those that you need to click and keep holding the button for the laser, this one is the push type."
Pros
- Practical uses as well as fun
- Multifunctional
- Value for money
Cons
- Some reviews comment on poor battery life
Best laser projection toy
The YVE LIFE Laser Toy for Indoor Cats is thoughtfully designed with slow and fast modes to cater for all cats. It offers motion activated, hands-free play. This laser toy automatically switches on when its sensor detects movement. Then, it automatically turns off after 15 minutes and is activated once in two hours only. This is a great touch, to avoid over-stimulation and frustrated play. Adjustable circular motions to create different patterns across the floor and walls – just be sure not to position this near the antique porcelain collection.
Customer review: "First of all I have to say that this is a great toy and my cats loved it, however, you really need quite a bit of clear space in order for it to work effectively. I ended up having to hold it to direct it appropriately in my living room, which defeated the objective of providing a toy they could play with on their own. If you have enough clear space would definitely recommend it."
Pros
- Slow and fast modes
- Silent motor
- Automatic shut-off
Cons
- Need a large, clear area for safe play
Best laser mouse toy
www.viovet.co.uk
The Trixie Cat Toy Laser Pointer Catch the Light is a mini mouse that can provide hours of interactive play for you and your cat. Press the button on the top of the mouse and it shines a laser beam for your cat to chase along the floor. Play with your pet anywhere, as this little mouse fits in a pocket, bag or on your belt. This is a plastic 7cm mouse on a key chain... not to be confused with the type you use with your computer.
Pros
- Portable
- Play with your pet
Cons
- No customer reviews
Best automatic laser toy
www.petsathome.com
Alleviate your cat's boredom and divert any destructive tendencies using the PetSafe Bolt Laser Light Cat Toy. With a single button press, the toy will operate automatically for one hour, stimulating your cat's instincts with unpredictable laser patterns across walls, floors and furniture. Alternatively, in manual mode, you can control the laser patterns and engage one-on-one with your cat.
Pros
- Engages your cat's instincts with random patterns
- Hands-free play
Cons
- No customer review
FAQs
What are the benefits of cat laser toys?
Cat laser toys offer numerous benefits. They provide mental and physical stimulation, mimicking prey for cats to chase, engaging their hunting instincts. This healthy activity and weight management is especially vital for indoor cats. These toys are easily adjustable for various play levels. Laser play can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour around the home. When you play with your pet it enhances the bond between you and your cat, contributing to a healthy and happy feline.
Cat laser toys benefit energetic and playful cats, especially those with high activity levels and hunting instincts. Cats that enjoy interactive play and exercise will find them most stimulating.
What are the drawbacks of cat laser toys?
Despite their benefits, cat laser toys have some drawbacks. Cats can become frustrated when they can't catch the elusive laser point, which doesn't provide the gratification of getting their prey. The PDSA advises that laser pointer play should be in conjunction with a game where your cat can physically catch something. It's rewarding for a cat to pounce on something tangible.
Overuse may lead to obsession or anxiety. Additionally, laser play lacks human interaction and can reduce bonding opportunities between cats and their owners. Battersea.org also advises advises caution with laser cat toys: "Cats can be left feeling frustrated if they are never able to catch or ‘kill’ the ‘prey’ they are playing with." The trouble is, a laser toy doesn't have the full sensory experience of touching and smelling prey. It's like letting your kids play on their Xbox for longer than they should; the last thing you want is a house full of grumpy kittens.
Which types of cats will find cat laser toys unsuitable?
Always consider your cat's personality and health when selecting toys and play activities. There are some cases where cat laser toys might not be the best choice for your cat.
Some cats can become obsessed with chasing the laser dot to the point of frustration or compulsive behaviour. This can be detrimental to their mental wellbeing. Cats prone to anxiety may become more stressed when they can't physically 'catch' the laser dot. Similarly, cats with aggressive tendencies might become overly focused on the laser dot and exhibit angry behaviour when they can't capture it.
While laser toys can be used with kittens, they should be just one part of a well-rounded playtime routine that includes other types of toys and interactions. Always prioritise your kitten's safety and wellbeing during play.
Older cats may not have the same level of interest or agility to engage with a moving light toy. They might prefer slower, less physically demanding play. Likewise, cats with physical limitations, such as arthritis or mobility issues, may find it difficult to engage in the high-energy play that laser toys often provide.
Finally, cats with vision problems may struggle to see or follow the laser dot, making the game frustrating for them.
Are cat laser toys suitable for kittens?
Cat laser toys can be suitable for kittens, but it's important to use them with caution. First, ensure the laser toy is safe for your kitten and won't cause harm to their eyes. Kittens have a lot of energy, but their playtime should include toys that help them to develop well-rounded physical and mental agility. Laser play can be a part of their routine but shouldn't replace other forms of play. Always supervise playtime with a laser toy when playing with a kitten. At the end of a laser play session, offer a physical treat that your kitten can pounce on to give them a sense of closure and satisfaction.
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things cats and dogs. In her other life, Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.