Why Do Cats Knock Stuff Over?

If you've ever seen your cat lock eyes with you... while slowly (oh so slowly) bumping a glass off of a table, you're not the only one. 

The reality is, cats do knock things over, and these felines are not just being naughty or looking for attention. It's a perfectly normal behavior that is basically tied to their instinct, emotion, and environment.

In this article, we'll go through real reasons why cats enjoy knocking things over and how to gently manage it.

1. Testing or Marking Their Space 

It is common for cats to demonstrate territorial and change-sensitive behavior. They often "test" or claim the territory by knocking things over to assert their own space. 

Interestingly, quietly tapping an object could be intentional and not always random. Your cat could be creating territory-related scent markers associated with the glands in their paws. 

Sometimes this is simply playful, sometimes it is genuine intent (ouch.)

2. They Want Attention

Your cat has probably realized that when they knock something over, you respond. Whether it is running over, calling their name, or picking them up, they get your attention. 

For cats wanting your attention for play, a meal, or even just some time with you, this can be a great if somewhat destructive, way to do it.

It is their version of saying, “Hey! Over here!”

3. They’re Bored

A bored cat is a cat that is more likely to create chaos.

When cats are not given play or enrichment, it has been noted that they will create their own play (e.g., knock things over on a counter...it's not their fault!). It turns into a game. The object falls. You react. They win.

4. It Stimulates Their Inner Hunter 

Believe it or not, your cat knocking over small items could be very closely connected to their wild hunting instinct. 

In the wild, cats typically swat at a bug or mouse to see if it moves. Indoors, that instinct gets transferred to… your stuff. The movement, the noise, and the unpredictability of the item falling trigger your cat’s play-prey response.

5. It's All About Curiosity

Cats are some of the most curious creatures in the animal kingdom. They enjoy exploring their space with all of their senses, including sight, smell, and, yep, touch. That paw swipe? It's not to annoy you.

It's your cat's way of testing how an object reacts.

Knocking something over teaches your cat things about their environment. To them, it's like a fun little experiment.

6. This Might be Anxiety or Stress 

From time to time, a cat could knock things off of things as a response to stress or anxiety. Stressors may include current factors such as moving, loud noises, visitors, or changes in their normal routine.

If a cat is knocking something over, this can help them discharge nervous energy or relieve pent-up stress or tension.

Managing the Behavior Proactively

Though swatting things off the table is a natural behavior in cats, you can reduce your losses (and stress) by following a couple of simple tips:

• Keep breakables out of sight - If you don't want it broken, keep it in a drawer or cabinet, NOT on an open shelf.
• Provide alternatives - If you have a climber, one of the biggest attractions is height; a cat tree or climbing shelf gives your kitty a place to perch to watch the birds outside the window.
• Provide for mental enrichment – Typically, toys, puzzle feeders, treat hunts, and things to keep them entertained will help with boredom.
• Ease them into a different activity – If your cat is caught mid-swat during a knock down, alternatively offer them something to swat, like a toy, instead of scolding them. This tactfully facilitates better behavior.
• Watch for stress behaviors – Abrupt changes in behavior may indicate your cat is struggling with anxiety. Just like with people, other stress signals will likely be present as well. 

An important step to help with this is to make sure your cat is in a calm and consistent environment.