Hasbro’s Latest Venture Brings Toy Cats To Life To Be Companions To The Elderly

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If you’re still searching for the purr-fect gift for your grandparents (or other elderly loved ones) and think they might enjoy a little four-legged company, without the hassle of scooping kitty litter, then you might be the perfect candidate for Hasbro’s new line of “companion pets.” 

Yes, you read that right, the toy company’s latest foray just so happens to be in mechanical feline companions: the “Joy For All” cats look, feel and sound like the real thing, Mashable reports.

The life-like toy cat includes built-in sensors that respond to motion and touch. That means if you, say, scratch under the animal’s chin, it’ll respond by nuzzling your hand, or if you simply leave it alone, it’ll take a catnap. The one thing it doesn’t do is walk, however, so don’t expect Mr. Whiskers to come running when you call.

“Joy for All Companion Pet cats are designed to bring comfort, companionship and fun for your elder loved ones,” Hasbro says on the product’s website. “With realistic fur, purrs and meows – and sensors that respond to petting and hugs with familiar, cat-like actions – Companion Pets deliver a soothing, joyful experience that inspires smiles, laughter and fond memories.”

The line, which retails for about $100 per animal, isn’t the first robotic pet to hit the market. But unlike brands like Perfect Petzzz and Tekno, the Hasbro version isn’t marketed just for kids, it’s for animal lovers of all ages, Mashable reports.

“We believe that the power of play can bring joy to people at all stages of life, and we’ve heard from our friends, fans, and consumers that some of our toys and games are especially appealing to seniors and enhance meaningful interactions with their loved ones,” the company says.

Hasbro’s new robotic cats are ‘companion pets’ for the elderly [Mashable]

by Ashlee Kieler via Consumerist