Why Do Cats Knock Stuff Over? 5 Ways To Stop It

If you’ve ever owned a cat, you know that they have a penchant for knocking things over. It’s like they take joy in watching us humans scramble to pick up whatever it is they’ve just toppled.

But why do cats do this? Why do cats knock stuff over?

Here’s a closer look at why cats knock things over, and how you can help them satisfy their curiosity in a safe and constructive way.

Why do cats knock things over?

1. To get your attention.

Cats are known for their seemingly random acts of knocking things over. But there’s actually a method to their madness. When a cat knocks something over, it’s usually trying to get your attention.

There are a few reasons why your cat might want your attention. Maybe they’re hungry and want you to feed them.

Or perhaps they’re bored and looking for some entertainment. Either way, cats know that knocking things over is a surefire way to get your attention.

So the next time your cat sends your coffee mug crashing to the floor, don’t be too quick to scold them. They’re just trying to tell you something!

2. To play with you.

Cats knock things over because they want to play with you. When they see something that catches their interest, they’ll swat at it with their paw.

This is their way of getting your attention so you’ll play with them.

If your cat is knocking things over on a regular basis, it’s important to provide them with plenty of toys and playtime so they don’t get bored.

Otherwise, they may start to view your belongings as their personal playground and you’ll end up with a lot of broken items.

So, next time your cat knocks something over, take a moment to play with them. It’ll make them happy and help keep your things safe.

3. To show their affection for you.

Cats have a habit of knocking things over. It’s their way of showing affection for you. When a cat knocks something over, they’re really just trying to say “I love you.”

So, next time your cat knocks something over, take it as a sign of affection.

And if you’re looking for a way to show your cat some love, try returning the favor by giving them a good head scratch, or petting them will also show that you love them back. They’ll appreciate it!

4. Because they’re curious and want to explore their surroundings.

Cats are known for their curious nature, and one of the ways they explore their surroundings is by knocking things over. While this may be annoying to us humans, it’s actually perfectly normal behavior for cats.

There are a few reasons why cats knock things over. For one, they’re curious creatures and want to know what everything is.

By knocking something over, they can get a better look at it and see what it does. Additionally, cats like to play with objects, and knocking them over can be part of that play.

Finally, some cats do it simply because they enjoy the noise or sound.

Whatever the reason, if your cat is knocking things over, there’s no need to worry. It’s just their way of exploring their world and having a little fun.

5. Because they’re bored and have nothing else to do.

Cats knock things over because they’re bored and have nothing else to do. It’s a way to relieve their boredom and frustration, and it gives them a sense of satisfaction.

Cats also like to see how far they can push things, and how much they can get away with.

If you consistently scold your cat for knocking things over, they’ll eventually learn that it’s not acceptable behavior.

However, if you don’t do anything about it, they’ll continue to do it because it’s fun and entertaining for them.

How do I stop my cat from knocking stuff over?

There are a few things you can do to stop your cat from knocking things over:

1. Provide a scratching post or other item for them to scratch

One way to stop your cat from knocking things over is to provide them with an alternative item to scratch.

This could be a scratching post, a piece of cardboard, or anything else that they can use to scratch without damaging your belongings.

2. Try training with positive reinforcement

You can try training your cat with positive reinforcement, meaning you reward them when they behave as you want them to.

For example, if you see them scratching on their scratching post instead of your furniture, give them a treat or some other form of positive reinforcement.

3. Make sure items are out of reach or not accessible

If there are particular items you don’t want your cat to knock over, make sure they are out of their reach or otherwise not accessible to them.

This could mean putting them up high, in a closed cupboard, or in another room entirely.

4. Provide them with toys and other forms of stimulation

Another way to stop your cat from knocking things over is to provide them with plenty of toys and other forms of stimulation.

This will help keep them occupied and distracted from knocking things over.

5. Speak to a veterinarian or professional trainer

If you’re struggling to stop your cat from knocking things over, you may want to speak to a veterinarian or professional trainer for additional help and advice.

Conclusion

Cats are notorious for their love of knocking things over. While this behavior can be frustrating for owners, it’s important to remember that it’s perfectly natural for cats.

After all, cats are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings. The next time your cat starts knocking things over, you’ll know exactly why.

And while it may be annoying at times, just remember that they’re only trying to communicate with you. So try to be understanding… and maybe keep your valuables out of reach.