You can freely build on How to Exercise Your Cat Using a Laser Pointer
This patent expired in 2013. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Individual
Patent granted
1995
Expired
2013
Forward citations
35
What this patent covers
The patent outlines a specific technique for feline exercise. It involves using a handheld laser to project a small, highly-focused, and intense beam of light onto a surface like a wall or floor. The user then moves the laser so the light spot travels in an irregular pattern, which triggers a cat's natural predatory chase instinct. By keeping the light just out of the cat's reach, the user forces the animal to run and jump, providing aerobic exercise.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 5443036 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover the manufacturing of the laser device itself.
Does not cover using non-laser light sources, such as flashlights or LED pens.
Does not cover automated systems that move the laser without human intervention.
Does not cover exercise methods that involve physical toys or physical contact.
Who is building on this today
The pet toy industry has largely commoditized this concept. Companies like PetSafe and various generic manufacturers produce automated laser toys that rely on the basic principle of moving a light source to stimulate feline movement.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Standard handheld red laser pointers
Pet-specific laser toys
Automated laser cat toys
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Individual. US Patent 5443036. Method of exercising a cat. Granted 1995, expired 2013. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.