Laser Light Pointers for Use in Companion Cat Play: Association with Guardian-Reported Abnormal Repetitive Behaviors

Abstract

Use of laser light pointers for feline play is popular with many companion cat guardians. It can be an enjoyable shared interaction and provide an opportunity for feline exercise. Laser light play alone, however, does not allow cats to complete the hunting sequence and it has been suggested that this may trigger frustration and stress, common contributors to compulsive behaviors. This study examined the potential relationship between the use of laser light pointers for play and excessive or abnormal repetitive behaviors (ARBs) often linked to diagnosis of feline compulsive disorders. Using an online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey, we explored cat guardians' use of laser toys and reported ARBs in their cats. A total of 618 responses were analyzed, primarily female participants from the United States. We found significant associations between the frequency of laser light play and the occurrence of all surveyed ARBs, apart from overgrooming. Provision of outdoor access and cat age were also significant predictors of reported ARBs: indoor-only cats, and young (1-2 years) cats were more likely to display ARBs. The strongest patterns were seen for behaviors which may be connected to laser light play: chasing lights or shadows, staring "obsessively" at lights or reflections, and fixating on a specific toy. Although correlational, these results suggest that laser light toys may be associated with the development of compulsive behaviors in cats, warranting further research into their use and potential risks.

Keywords: abnormal repetitive behaviors; feline; feline compulsive disorder; frustration; laser light pointer; play; stress; toy.

Figure 1

Cat guardian responses to questions related to frequency of exaggerated or abnormal repetitive behaviors in their cats.

Figure 2

Cat guardian responses to questions related to their ability to redirect their cat’s behavior.

Figure 3

Cat guardian responses to questions related to the impact of overgrooming behaviors (n = 84).

Figure 4

Reasons given by cat guardians for not currently (or ever) using laser light pointers to play with their cats (n = 336).

Figure 5

Reasons given by cat guardians for using laser light pointers to play with their cats (n = 282).

Figure 6

Laser light pointer statements reported to have been heard by cat guardians (n = 618).