Beast Lab Cat

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting This Exciting STEM Toy for Kids

The Beast Lab Cat has become one of the most popular STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) toys on the market today. This innovative kit allows kids to build their very own walking, moving cat robot from scratch.

With so many options, features and places to buy the Beast Lab Cat, it can get overwhelming for parents looking to purchase this toy. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive buying guide, to give you all the information you need before getting the Beast Lab Cat for your child.

What Exactly is the Beast Lab Cat?

The Beast Lab Cat is an interactive, motorized cat that children can fully assemble on their own. It comes with 140+ snap-together pieces that allow kids to build the cat’s body, circuits, motor and battery pack.

Once assembled, the Beast Lab Cat walks around using its motion sensors to avoid objects in its path. Kids can interact using the snap-on tail pieces that elicit different reactions from the cat.

This STEM toy is designed for kids ages 8 and up. The hands-on building process helps teach principles of engineering, robotics, coding and more. It’s an educational toy masked in a bunch of fun!

Key Features

• 140+ snap-together pieces to build a walking, moving cat
• Motorized joints and motion sensors for mobility
• Sound effects and snap-on tails for fun reactions
• Requires 3 AA batteries
• Designed for ages 8+
• Fully customizable Build-It-Yourself kit
• Teaches STEM principles like engineering and robotics

How Do You Assemble the Beast Lab Cat?

One of the best parts of the Beast Lab Cat is the hands-on assembly process. The kit comes with step-by-step picture instructions that walk kids through building their own motorized cat.

Here is an overview of the main assembly steps:

• Snap together the cat’s body pieces which include the torso, head, legs, paws, and motor pack.
• Install the motor and circuits into the motor pack that drive the legs and motion.
• Connect the sensory antennas to the motor pack which control the cat’s ability to move around on its own.
• Insert the battery pack and 3 AA batteries to power on the cat.
• Decorate your Beast Lab Cat with stickers and markers to customize the look.
• Code different reactions by snapping on one of 4 included interactive tails with motion sensors.

Expect the assembly process to take 1-2 hours. Kids will need adult supervision for some tricky parts, but the end result is rewarding. The Beast Lab Cat comes to life before your eyes!

Where Can I Buy the Beast Lab Cat?

The Beast Lab Cat is sold at major retailers that carry STEM toys and kids robotics sets. Here are some of the best places to buy it:

• Amazon: Widest selection of the Beast Lab Cat models at competitive pricing
• Target: Frequently have the Beast Lab Cat in-stock at retail locations and online
• Walmart: Usually carry at least one Beast Lab Cat version in-store and on their website
• Best Buy: Reliable inventory of the Beast Lab Cat both online and in electronics departments
• STEM toy retailers like SparkFun, Fat Brain Toys, and RobotShop also typically carry the Beast Lab Cat

For the biggest selection of models, special edition cats, and bundle deals, we recommend purchasing directly from the manufacturer’s website. They always have new Beast Lab Cats in stock ready to ship.

Use price comparison sites like Google Shopping to find the best current pricing across retailers. Sign up for email alerts so you can snag deals and discounts on the Beast Lab Cat when they pop up.

What Age Group is the Beast Lab Cat For?

The Beast Lab Cat is designed and marketed to children ages 8 years and older. The recommended age range is 8-15 years.

There are a few reasons why this interactive STEM toy is best suited for ages 8+:

• The build process follows detailed step-by-step instructions best understood by older kids.
• Following wiring diagrams and installing circuits requires advanced dexterity and logic skills.
• Understanding the engineering principles requires a knowledge foundation not typical below age 8.
• The 140+ small pieces pose a choking hazard for toddlers and young children if any are swallowed.

Of course, every child develops differently. Some precocious 7 year olds may be ready for the Beast Lab Cat with close parental supervision. But for the majority of kids, age 8 is the sweet spot when they can build the cat robot semi-independently and learn the most from the experience.

The Beast Lab Cat instructions state it’s for ages 14+, but customer reviews confirm even 8-10 year olds are able to assemble with minimal help. So don’t be scared off by the high recommended age!

How Does the Beast Lab Cat Work?

The science behind the Beast Lab Cat is fascinating for kids to learn. Here’s a quick overview:

• The motor pack contains gears and pulleys that power movement in the legs when turned on.
• Motion sensors on the bottom detect obstacles, causing the motor to reverse and change direction.
• Sound and light activation chips trigger noises and LEDs in response to stimuli.
• The interactive tails each contain sensors that link to programmed reactions when touched.
• The battery pack provides electricity to operate the motor, sensors and lights.
• Plastic pieces interlock to form the body which is held together by snap pins.

As kids build the Beast Lab Cat, they install each electrical component following diagram instructions. This teaches how robotic systems function to replicate autonomous, life-like movement.

Advanced users can reprogram sound effects, modify reactions, and overhaul circuits once they understand the basics of how the Beast Lab Cat works. The learning possibilities are endless!

Are There Different Models of the Beast Lab Cat?

The manufacturer makes several versions of the Beast Lab Cat tailored to different interests and skill levels. The main models available include:

• Explorer – The 140-piece basic kit that builds a core walking cat with sounds and lights. Best for beginners.
• Adventure – An upgraded 190-piece version with expanded sensors and programming options accessed via a mobile app. For more advanced users.
• Discovery – A 270-piece model that adds STEM curriculum, virtual reality, and augmented reality through a mobile device. Ultimate educational experience.
• Special Edition Cats – Unique shells, colors and features like glow in the dark pieces or seasonal designs. Fun collector’s items!

All versions include the core walking cat build experience with extra capabilities added onto the higher-end models. Compare all the Beast Lab Cat options to choose the right one based on your child’s age, skill level, and interests.

There are also alternative builds beyond the cat that can be created with some of the kits for extra STEM learning!

What Materials Are Used to Make the Beast Lab Cat?

The Beast Lab Cat uses a range of high-quality materials carefully selected for safety, durability and functionality. Here are the main components:

• Plastic – Food-grade ABS plastic pieces snap together to form the body structure. Made to withstand regular use.
• Circuits – Printed circuits control the motor functions. Designed to handle child-handling.
• Sensors – Advanced sensors detect motion, sound, and touch. Calibrated to pickup stimuli.
• Motor – A precision gearbox motor provides seamless movement. Made for low-noise operation.
• Battery Pack – Durable casing houses 3 AA batteries (not included). Made to be secure.
• Wires – Copper wiring with silicone insulation transmits signals. Flexible and well-protected.
• Fasteners – Snap pins, grommets and nylon screws hold pieces firmly together while allowing controlled movement.

All parts meet strict quality standards for function and safety. Multiple child testing rounds ensure the Beast Lab Cat survives regular kid play. Responsibly made and thoroughly manufactured.

Is the Beast Lab Cat Safe for Kids?

Safety is a top priority for the Beast Lab Cat. All pieces meet strict standards from the International Sciences, Technology and Engineering Association (ISTEA) for toys.

Here are some key safety features:

• Made from food-grade, non-toxic plastic tested for durability
• Smooth edges on all pieces to prevent cuts or scratches during building
• Small parts kept away from main kit to reduce risk of choking hazards
• Low voltage power sources for safe interaction (3 AA batteries)
• Secure battery pack with protected wiring for electricity safety
• Tip-resistant structure designed to prevent easy toppling
• Meets all CPSC safety regulations for electronical toys
• Recommended only for kids 8+ years due to complexity

Of course, adult supervision is still recommended during building. Proper battery installation and electrical component handling should be overseen by a grown-up.

With proper use, the Beast Lab Cat provides a very safe STEM learning experience for kids using high-quality materials and strict safety standards. Kids won’t get zapped or have pieces fly off – just safe robotics fun!

How Durable Is the Beast Lab Cat?

Durability is another high point of the Beast Lab Cat. The plastics, circuits and parts are made to withstand regular child’s play. Here are some of the durability features:

• Impact-resistant plastic can handle drops without cracking or shattering
• Wires are coated in extra-flexible insulation to prevent wear or tear
• Water-resistant materials in case of spills, rain, or drips
• Rugged motor designed to handle hours of use without burnout
• Moving parts made from reinforced nylon , aluminum and rubber
• Secure snap-fit pieces maintain tight connections to prevent loosening
• Quality control testing across all batches for guaranteed performance
• Backed by a 90-day replacement warranty in case of defects

User reviews confirm even after hours upon hours of playtime, the Beast Lab Cat remains fully intact with only minimal exterior scuffs. Electronics, motion sensors, and programming stay operational for years with proper battery levels and care.

This STEM toy is built to last through months of hands-on learning and fun. Buy with confidence knowing the Beast Lab Cat will hold up!

What Is the Price Range for the Beast Lab Cat?

As an advanced electronic DIY STEM toy, the Beast Lab Cat sits at a moderate price point usually between $70-$150 USD depending on the model. Here’s a look at standard retail pricing:

• Basic Explorer model – $70-$90
• Upgraded Adventure version – $100-$130
• Advanced Discovery model – $130-150
• Special edition cats – $80-$120

Pricing may be slightly higher directly through the manufacturer’s website, but they often run sales and coupon codes. Compare prices across retailers like Amazon, Target and Walmart to find the best deal.

For the technology built into the Beast Lab Cat, including the motor, sensors, programming and educational curriculum, the price is very reasonable compared to other STEM robotics kits. With proper care, it will deliver months to years of learning value.

Consider the Beast Lab Cat an investment in your child’s STEM education. The skills gained from hands-on building are well worth the price tag!

How Do You Troubleshoot Issues with the Beast Lab Cat?

Like any electronic toy, the Beast Lab Cat may run into occasional issues from use over time. Here are some troubleshooting tips if problems pop up:

Cat won’t turn on

• Check battery levels and connection in the pack
• Examine wires for any detachments
• Re-seat circuits to ensure snapped in place
• Try new AA batteries

Legs won’t move

• Remove/reattach leg pieces
• Check motor pack wires aren’t detached
• Review gear alignments
• Re-do leg circuit connections

Motion sensors not working

• Check antenna wire connections
• Adjust positioning of sensors
• Try recalibrating sensors on a flat surface

No sound effects

• Review speaker wiring in ears
• Check volume levels in programming
• Examine wires for any frays or damage

Tail sensors not responsive

• Check tab connections on tail ends
• Replace battery in tail
• Recalibrate/reprogram sensor settings

Doing a full review of assembly instructions can help identify any wiring, connections or positioning issues. For advanced troubleshooting tips, visit the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support.

Can the Beast Lab Cat Be Used Both Indoors and Outdoors?

The Beast Lab Cat is designed for regular use in both indoor and outdoor settings. Here are some tips for using it in either environment:

Indoors

• Clear room obstacles for open driving space
• Surfaces like tile, hardwood, or low-pile carpet work best
• Limit to one story to avoid stair falls
• Keep away from narrow spaces where the Beast Lab Cat could get stuck

Outdoors

• Use on flat, paved surfaces like driveways or patios
• Avoid thick grass that could obstruct motion
• Prevent access to streets, pools, or danger areas
• Bring battery pack inside if wet weather
• Clean off dirt and grime after outdoor play

The Beast Lab Cat works great inside or outside. Just be sure to monitor use on surfaces with clearance, remove tripping hazards, and keep away from areas that could damage the electronics. Proper adult supervision is key!

Are There Any Fun Accessories to Enhance the Beast Lab Cat?

One of the best parts of the Beast Lab Cat is all the add-on accessories available for enhanced play:

• Additional Tails – Unique snap-on tails like Unicorn, Bunny, or Winter Holiday Tails that reprogram the cat’s movements
• Outfits – Costumes like a Shark Fin or Santa Suit to dress up your cat
• Decor Kits – Customize with stickers, markers, paint and stencils
• Obstacle Course – Extend play with tunnels, hurdles and hoops
• Replacement Parts – Useful for refreshing well-loved cats so they can be enjoyed longer
• Expansion Packs – Add advanced sensors, lights, sounds, and tools
• Mobile Device Stand – Allows attachment of tablet or phone to interact with app-connected Beast Lab Cats

Check the manufacturer’s website or accessory section on Amazon for the latest add-ons. They are constantly developing new ways to expand your Beast Lab Cat!

How Do You Clean the Beast Lab Cat After Playtime?

Keeping the Beast Lab Cat clean is important for both appearance and functionality. Here are some tips for cleaning it:

• Wipe exterior plastic pieces with a soft damp cloth to remove dirt and dust
• Spot scrub tougher grime with a mild soap and rinse fully with clean water
• Avoid soaking any circuits, wires or the battery pack
• Use a dry toothbrush to gently loosen debris in narrow crevices
• Fully air dry all pieces before reassembling
• Rub soft toothbrush around wheel axles to clean
• Shake out dirt in crevices near motion sensor antennas
• Remove set-in sticker residue carefully with fingernail
• Refresh faded plastics with plastic cleaner and buff out light scratches
• Vacuum dust bunnies out of interior crevices

Take care to not use harsh chemicals, abrasives or scrubbers that could further damage the plastics. Thorough drying prevents moisture damage on circuits.

Regular cleaning when needed keeps the Beast Lab Cat rolling along looking nice!

What Are Common Issues Reported With the Beast Lab Cat?

Overall, the Beast Lab Cat has great reviews and few common defects thanks to good manufacturing. But here are a few minor issues to be aware of:

• Loose pieces – Improper snap fittings may cause a paw or other piece to dislodge with vigorous play
• Flimsy plastic – Certain kits may have thinner plastic prone to cracks
• Circuit durability – Overly flexing wires could cause internals to malfunction
• Gearbox noise – Excessive load can lead to grinding noise from the motor
• Trouble walking – Cheap knock-offs lack proper gear alignment resulting in mobility issues
• Faulty sensors – Improper calibration may lead to inconsistent detection
• Difficult instructions – Some users report unclear diagrams and education content
• Short battery life – More advanced functions may drain batteries faster

Thankfully these issues seem limited to a small batch of kits and are covered by the warranty. Opt for well-reviewed models from authorized retailers for best results.

With care, your Beast Lab Cat should provide months of STEM fun! But inspect your kit fully when received to ensure a properly functioning model.

How Does the Beast Lab Cat Compare to Other STEM Toys Like LEGO Boost or Robotis?

The Beast Lab Cat holds it own against top competitors in the STEM robotics toy market:

LEGO Boost – Iconic blocks with motors/sensors. More flexibility but less realistic movements. Better for younger kids.

Robotis Kids – Sophisticated mini humanoids programmable via apps. Higher learning curve. Ages 10+.

Ozobot – Small programmable robot. Limited assembly required. Focused on coding. Portable for all ages.

littleBits – Modular magnetic electronic pieces that snap together. More freeform creative building.

Sphero – Programmable robotic balls. Focuses on coding through apps. Novel ball design.

The Beast Lab Cat strikes a great balance between an interactive animal friend and customizable DIY STEM toy. It teaches core robotics and engineering skills through an approachable real-life cat model.

Well-suited for kids ages 8-15 looking for a fun first robotics kit or those wanting to level up their STEM skills after LEGO. It hits the sweet spot between fun and learning!

Where Can I Find Helpful Reviews for the Beast Lab Cat?

Here are some great places to read Beast Lab Cat reviews:

• YouTube – Tons of demonstration and review videos showing assembling, programming and real kid reactions.
• Amazon – Largest number of customer reviews across all the Beast Lab Cat models. Sort by top ratings.
• Specialty STEM Sites – RobotLab, RobotShop, STEMForKids and STEMToyExpert have detailed breakdowns.
• Parenting blogs – AlwaysAmazing, STEMKids, SmartBabyTots, etc. have reviews from real-life testing.
• Reddit – Search robotics and STEM toy subreddits for owner reviews.
• Facebook Groups – Beast Lab Cat User Group and STEM Toy Lab have great feedback.
• Manufacturer website – Shows curated positive reviews but you can ask questions.
• Third-party review sites like ToyWize, KidStuff, and RobotLab compare all options.

Videos let you see it in action while detailed reviews provide helpful pros/cons. Check multiple sources to make sure the Beast Lab Cat is the right STEM toy!

What Is the Best Way to Store the Beast Lab Cat Between Play Sessions?

Since the Beast Lab Cat has small parts and electronics, proper storage between play is advised:

• Disassemble fully back into separate pieces grouped into bags or small organizers to prevent lost pieces. Rebuilding each time adds to the learning experience.
• Keep instruction manual, posters and any accessories together for next usage. Download digital instructions for on-the-go access.
• Remove batteries from battery pack to prevent drainage and corrosion.
• Consider a plastic storage bin or resealable bags for keeping all pieces sorted and protected.
• For display, use museum gel putty to hold assembled cat in place so it won’t topple or lose parts.
• Keep away from high heat sources, direct sunlight, or anywhere it could get wet/damaged.
• Store at normal room temperature. Avoid basement/garages which can get too cold in winter for circuits.

Proper storage keeps all the Beast Lab Cat pieces safe between STEM sessions. It also makes setup quicker for the next round of creative play!

Are There Educational Benefits to Playing with the Beast Lab Cat?

Absolutely! While super fun to build and play with, the Beast Lab Cat has many hidden educational benefits:

• Engineering – Learning how gears, axles, and cams produce motion
• Computer Science – Seeing sensors/code trigger real-world reactions
• Electronics – Understanding circuits, wiring, and electricity
• STEM principles – Linking hands-on build to science concepts
• Spatial reasoning – Following 3D diagrams and designs
• Fine motor skills – Perfecting precise manipulation of detailed pieces
• Troubleshooting – Trial and error to diagnose issues
• Creativity – Customizing their own unique Beast Lab Cat

The open-ended play fosters critical thinking, imagination, and problem solving too. Kids have so much fun they don’t even realize how much they are learning!

How Do You Maintain the Beast Lab Cat for Ongoing Use?

To enjoy your Beast Lab Cat model to the fullest over many months, follow these tips:

• Fully recharge batteries used in battery pack, motor and tails after each usage
• Inspect all parts for damage after play sessions and replace anything broken
• Test motion sensors and electronic functions periodically for responsiveness
• Download app updates for programming maintenance
• Wipe down exterior and clean any debris from moving parts
• Apply clear tape on plastic at high wear points to reinforce
• Check wires for fraying and rewrap any exposed areas
• Re-tighten any loose fasteners or joints
• Lubricate gears, axles and pulleys with plastic-safe oil if noise develops
• Avoid exposure to moisture, extreme cold or excess heat

With proper cleaning, testing, and component replacement when needed, your Beast Lab Cat will deliver endless STEM fun for years to come!