I’m not sure how true that is.

Cats don’t literally think they’re hunting when you play with them, since cats don’t pur when they’re hunting.

I’ve two cats, the more sociable cat that can play with people/animals without hurting them shows excitement as soon as I pick up the laser pen.

The one that can only play with toys ignores the laser pen.

They both understand they’re not going to catch anything, and the one that only enjoys catching things doesn’t engage.