Why Doesn’t My Cat Chase A Laser Pointer?

It’s often assumed cats will do the same thing as other cats. This is untrue as each cat has a remarkably unique personality whether this has to do with their surroundings, breed, age, and/or owners. Each factor plays a role in what they prefer and what they despise! This is why you might be left asking, why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?

Cats can sometimes refuse to chase a laser pointer if they are lazy, old, unwell, and/or have learned this behavior from another cat in the same household. This can happen when a younger cat is around a senior that has stopped being interested in laser pointers.

When this happens, you may wonder what is wrong with your cat!

It is a unique experience as the average cat will be interested in laser pointers even if they never “catch” it.

Key factors include:

  • Age of the Cat
  • Health
  • Energy Levels

If you have a cat that is doing this, you will ask “Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?” to figure out what needs to happen next.

In most cases, this is a behavior that won’t go away once they’re used to it. However, there is nothing wrong with this and it’s okay to find other ways to stimulate your cat and get them to pay attention (i.e. cat trees, toy mice, balls).

This article will look at the question “Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?” in a bid to learn more about what can cause a cat from chasing the red light all over the room.

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Reasons For Cat Not Chasing Laser Pointer

1. Aging

One of the main reasons for cats not chasing laser pointers has to do with aging.

Cats start to slow down as they grow older. This causes them to become lazier and uninterested in their surroundings including ignoring things they used to love as a younger cat.

It is also possible the cat’s eyesight is getting worse, which can impact their willingness to chase the laser pointer. Some might not even see it!

This is why it’s important to take your time with senior cats and find other ways to keep them active. This is key when asking “Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?” as you should never give up on the cat.

Just adjust and try to work with their aging body.

why doesn't my cat chase a laser pointer

2. Lazy Disposition

This is seen in larger cats.

They will be lazy to move around as it can be exhausting. Due to this, you will notice the cat look at the laser pointer but refuse to chase it.

They might just continue to dart their eye back and forth without ever getting up to go after it!

Some cats are lazy and will not run around even if there is a “stimulant” in front of them that is supposed to activate their prey drive.

When asking “Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?” you will want to account for the cat’s natural disposition.

If they are lazy in other parts of their life then this is just an extension of that.

why doesn't my cat chase a laser pointer

3. Learned Behavior From Older Cat(s)

This is rare but it is something to account for with multiple cats at home.

If this is the youngest cat then it might be learning this type of behavior from the seniors in the house. As mentioned before, senior cats do lose their interest in laser pointers due to their physical condition.

If the kitten notices this, they will do the same thing.

Kittens are impressionable at a young age making it far more likely for them to learn this type of behavior from a senior cat.

This is key when asking “Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?” because imitation is something kittens often do.

It is how they develop into adult cats and continue to follow their instinct.

Related Questions

1. How Do I Get My Cat Interested In Laser Pointer?

The best way to get your cat interested in a laser pointer is to keep it just out of reach. It should remain within their line of sight before darting away. This movement will catch their attention as it would when prey darts around in their area.

2. Is It Cruel To Play With a Laser With A Cat?

It is not cruel to play with a laser with your cat. However, it’s recommended to play safely meaning it should never be shone in their eyes and/or lead them into a safety hazard.

Final Thoughts

“Why doesn’t my cat chase a laser pointer?”

A cat that doesn’t chase laser pointers is either lazy, medically unwell, aging, and/or has learned this behavior from other cats in the household.

Here is more on cats – the patterns of a stray cat, the behavior of a feral cat, using coconut oil for a cat’s fur, and the value of raising a cat’s food bowl.