Laser Tag For Cats And Dogs

WIth more and more pets struggling with obesity, toys that stimulate our dogs and cats to exercise are gaining in popularity.  I like toys that encourage interaction between people and their pets because it builds their relationship while providing exercise.  The exception to this rule is pen lasers.  Although many dogs and cats love to chase the red dot as it scampers across the floor, I worry about using lasers for two reasons.  First, looking directly into a laser might cause permanent vision problems.  Great care must be taken to keep the laser pointed at the floor, away from your pet's eyes.  Second, laser chase may lead to obsessive/compulsive behavior problems in some dogs and cats.  The pet chases the dot but cannot physically catch it.  Without the ultimate reinforcement of "catching" the dot, animals become frustrated and chase it with more gusto.  Eventually, these animals develop a repetitive disorder characterized by overresponsiveness that requires medical intervention to control.  Therefore, I'm afraid I can not recommend laser tag for pets.      
 

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  • 9/27/2010 8:32 AM Galia wrote:
    Kris, I am so glad you posted this! We had been told to play the laser game with our girls to encourage exercise, and when I expressed concern that it could cause eye damage, I was just told to be careful not to shine it directly at them. But, whenever we played, I would worry that they would look directly at it anyway. Also, I felt bad that they couldn't "catch" the dot and noticed they could get frustrated. I made sure to give them a tangible toy when the game was over, but I was still worried. Once the battery on the toy died, we didn't bother to replace it, and now we use traditional toys with them. This was very useful, thank you again for posting!
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  • 10/6/2010 6:44 PM people wrote:
    Hey Kris. I agree about the laser pens possibly damaging a dog's eyes. It sure is fun entertainment though! (Found this post on a google search for pets and laser pens)

    Take care.

    Mary in Wash.
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