Why Do Cats Knock Things Off?

Have you ever witnessed your cat pushing things off tables or other ledges? You’re not alone, this is a common and natural behaviour. In this article we will explore this curious phenomenon that cats love to indulge in. Some people may find their cats knocking things over amusing but it can also cause issues, especially if your cat decides to knock items over that are sentimental or expensive. Objects can also smash and become dangerous when knocked over. Owners often ask: why do cats knock things off surfaces so often? Ultimately there are several reasons behind cats knocking things over. We will answer all your questions about this specific behaviour to help you discern why they are doing it. This will help you understand your feline friends' needs so you can provide them with the best possible care.

Understanding Cat Behaviour

Why do cats push things off tables? Understanding the natural predatory instincts of cats is key to grasping why cats love to indulge this specific behaviour. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means before domestication, they relied solely on hunting prey to survive and today, they should eat a meat based diet as the ingestion of taurine is essential for their survival. These hunting instincts are still hardwired into them, even when they are well fed, domesticated pets. This means they still have a strong desire to hunt, chase, pounce and stalk - this promotes their ‘cat mojo’ and overall wellbeing! Cats will find ways to satisfy these hunting cravings, especially if they are not mentally and physically stimulated, which may manifest as knocking items off surfaces regularly. This is why playing with your cat and being well versed about cat enrichment techniques is so important to keeping your cat happy and healthy. Cats are also curious to investigate things and some just like to push things off something because they can!

Curious about other common cat behaviours such as tail wagging and what different cat noises mean? Our detailed articles cover all these interesting topics and more.

Common Reasons Cats Knock Things Off

There are several reasons why cats knock things off ledges, tables and counters. Cats are naturally curious creatures who are hardwired to hunt prey, so this can lead to them testing objects with their paws to see how they move, ultimately resulting in your cat knocking the item off the ledge it resides on. This eccentric behaviour can also be due to boredom (when they are understimulated) or may manifest as a cry for attention! Sometimes it can be difficult figuring out the exact reasons why your cat is exhibiting this behaviour, so making sure you keep them mentally and physically stimulated is usually the best way to avoid it.

Do cats push things off due to territoriality? Yes, some experts believe this behaviour is also a form of territorial marking.

Your Cat is Bored

Why do cats knock things off ledges when they are bored? Cats need an abundance of mental and physical stimulation and may knock things over to entertain themselves when they are bored. If this happens around your home too frequently, ensure your cat is entertained by engaging them with their favourite games and toys during regularly scheduled playtimes. We suggest using things like puzzle feeders and interactive toys. Providing sufficient cat enrichment around your home can also help reel in this behaviour, cats enjoy a stimulating environment where they can run, climb, jump, hide and play.

Attention Seeking

Why do cats knock things over for attention? It’s important to remember that cats are very intelligent animals who may partake in undesirable behaviour in order to gain your attention. Your cat knows that knocking things over will grab your attention and may knock things over just to get a response. This is a learned behaviour that can be a way of communicating their needs with their owners. As always, making sure that they are mentally and physically stimulated can help.

Do you know all the different ways cats show affection? Our blogs are here to help you understand all the unique ways your cat communicates with you.

Your Cat is Hungry

Why do cats knock things off ledges when they are hungry? Sometimes your cat may knock things over to let you know they are hungry. This may be their own quirky way of communicating their needs with you; however, it is not as common as the other reasons listed in this article. Always make sure your cat has access to adequate food and water. They should also be fed a complete and balanced diet.

Your Cat is Acting on Instincts

Why do cats push things off counters instinctively? As mentioned previously, cats are hardwired to hunt, as they are apex predators. Pushing things off counters can satisfy this craving for them, as it mimics the movement of prey. They are acting on their innate instincts and hunting tendencies. Cats also love to observe and interact with their environment.

How to Prevent Cats from Knocking Things Off

It's important to remember that caring for cats properly can involve compromise sometimes! There are several ways to help prevent cats from knocking things over as frequently, but keep in mind it is natural for cats to engage with their surroundings in this way, so mediation is key.

• Keep valuable items out of reach: Cats will knock over items they can access easily. Nobody wants their valuable or sentimental objects broken around the home. These items may also pose a danger if your cat drops things off tables and ledges while they are unsupervised. We advise keeping them inside a locked cabinet and making sure that areas that can be easily accessed by your cat are free from dangerous or fragile objects.
• Keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated: bored cats are much more likely to indulge in this behaviour, either for attention or to entertain themselves. Prioritising one on one attention in the form of play, cuddles or simply by talking to them is helpful. Always engage your cat with their favourite toys or games to ensure playtime is enriching.
• Prioritise cat enrichment: Incorporating items like cat trees, boxes, cat shelves or obstacle courses for them to engage with around the home can also help. Keep in mind that cats are sensory animals with a highly developed sense of smell, touch, hearing, sight, and taste. Incorporating different textures, sights and sounds into their play, as well as rewarding them with treats and praise for good behaviour, is a great idea and will ensure your cat is healthy and happy, too.
• Make sure they have access to food and water: occasionally, some cats may knock things over because they are hungry. Not sure how much wet food to feed your cat? Check out our dedicated wet food articles for more advice.

Why do Cats Knock Things Off - FAQs

Why do cats push things off tables?

Cats push things off tables for several reasons! Cats are naturally curious creatures who are hardwired to hunt prey, so this can result in them testing objects with their paws to make the object mimic the movement of prey as the cat drops it. This eccentric behaviour can also be due to boredom, understimulation, or as a cry for attention! In rare cases, your cat may be trying to tell you they are hungry. Sometimes it can be difficult figuring out the exact reasons why your cat is exhibiting this behaviour and sometimes it's as simple as up to mischief! So making sure you keep them mentally and physically stimulated is usually the best way to avoid any unwanted accidents.

Why do cats push things off?

Cats push items off ledges for several reasons, namely for attention, to mimic the movement of prey as your cat drops the item off the ledge, and because they are bored. On rare occasions, your cat may be trying to communicate something else with you while engaging in this behaviour, such as hunger. Make sure that they are mentally and physically stimulated.

Why does my cat look at me and knock things over?

Your cat probably wants attention if they are looking at you as they knock an object off a ledge. Cats may knock things over just to get a response. This is a learned behaviour that can be a way of communicating their needs with their owners. Make sure that they are mentally and physically stimulated to help avoid this. Bored cats are much more likely to indulge in this behaviour, either for attention or to entertain themselves. Make sure you prioritise play, cuddles or engage them by talking to them.