The problem with laser pointers is that they lack an endpoint. Nothing is ever physically caught. Even if the cat is “successful,” there’s no reward. Such pointless play, says John Ciribassi, DVM, DACVB, can cause some cats to develop a compulsive disorder. Cat owners will find this video valuable. Post it on social media or link to it in newsletters.
Source: DVM 360, December 12, 2019. Link. Ciribassi suggests adding a clicker to laser pointer play to signal an end point, followed by a treat.
Also see: Video: Catching the light: An essential step when using laser pointers, DVM 360, January 9, 2016. Link. Sarah Wooten discusses laser pointer use with John Ciribassi, DVM, DACVB.