Cats have a knack for knocking things over. Whilst this quirky behaviour can be funny sometimes, other times it leaves us with a mess to clean up. According to PetMD, knocking objects over or off of shelves and tables may be a way for your cats to express their prey drive, explore their surroundings, and get your attention, and simply because it's fun.
Hunting instinct
As carnivores and predators, cats are natural hunters. When your cats start pawing at objects, it's akin to them batting around prey. Your cats may toy with the objects on the edge of the counter to hone their hunting instincts.
Attention seeking
Attention seeking behaviour is most common in cats who don't get enough stimulation from their home environment and it can also occur when your cats want to alert you to the fact that it's feeding time.
Boredom
If cats are not adequately entertained, they succumb to simple boredom and will find their own sources of amusement.
Fun
Cats are endlessly curious and love to explore, finding certain aspects of play.
Ways to minimise the cat batting drama
- Make sure your cats receive plenty of stimulation. Provide scratching posts, climbing places, and a space where your cats can sit by a window and observe the outside world for a little mental stimulation.
- Move cherished breakables off of desks, counters, and tables, and instead create an area where you can display those things that might get broken by your curious cats.
- Keep your cats' toys in rotation and spend at least 20 minutes each day snuggling and playing with your cats. Try puzzle toys to keep your cats busy when you aren't playing with them.
- Last but not least, feed your cats on a regular schedule.
Featured image by Emine Tokatlı