Cats are naturally curious creatures, and many owners have experienced their feline friends deliberately knocking objects off tables, shelves, and counters. While this behavior may seem mischievous, it’s usually driven by instinct, curiosity, or the desire for attention.
In this guide, we’ll explore why cats knock things over and how to prevent it effectively.
Why Do Cats Knock Things Over?
Cats may push objects off surfaces for several reasons:
✔ Curiosity – They enjoy exploring objects with their paws.
✔ Hunting Instinct – Moving objects mimic prey behavior, triggering their instinct to bat at them.
✔ Attention-Seeking – If knocking things over gets a reaction, they may repeat it.
✔ Boredom – A lack of mental stimulation can lead to playful destruction.
✔ Territory Marking – Some cats push things off shelves as a way to claim space.
Now, let’s go over how to prevent this behavior effectively.
Step 1: Remove or Secure Breakable Objects
If your cat can’t reach it, they can’t knock it over.
✔ Place valuable or fragile objects in cabinets or enclosed shelves.
✔ Use adhesive putty or non-slip mats to secure items on surfaces.
✔ Keep tables and counters clear of small objects they might find tempting.
✔ Limiting access prevents accidental (or intentional) messes.
Step 2: Provide Alternative Play Opportunities
Cats often knock things over due to boredom, so keeping them entertained helps.
✔ Offer interactive toys, treat dispensers, and puzzle feeders.
✔ Set up a cat tree, climbing shelves, or scratching posts for enrichment.
✔ Rotate their toys to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
✔ A well-stimulated cat is less likely to create their own “fun.”
Step 3: Ignore Attention-Seeking Behavior
If your cat knocks things over to get your reaction, stop reinforcing the behavior.
✔ Avoid immediately reacting when they push an item off a surface.
✔ Stay calm, pick up the object without engaging, and walk away.
✔ Reward them only when they’re behaving calmly.
✔ If knocking things over doesn’t get attention, they’ll stop doing it.
Step 4: Make Surfaces Less Appealing
If the surface isn’t fun to play on, your cat will lose interest.
✔ Apply double-sided tape or aluminum foil to areas they frequently target.
✔ Use cat-safe deterrent sprays with citrus or herbal scents.
✔ Rearrange items in a way that reduces tempting gaps for them to paw at.
✔ Making surfaces unappealing discourages bad habits.
Step 5: Train the “Leave It” Command
Teaching basic commands can help redirect unwanted behavior.
✔ When they approach an object to knock over, say “Leave it” in a calm voice.
✔ Offer a treat or toy as a distraction.
✔ Reward them when they obey the command.
✔ With consistency, they’ll learn to stop before knocking things over.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Reacting with Too Much Attention
❌ Mistake: Yelling or chasing them after they push something off a surface.
✅ Solution: Ignore the behavior and reinforce positive actions instead.
2. Not Providing Enough Mental Stimulation
❌ Mistake: Expecting them to stop knocking things over without alternatives.
✅ Solution: Give them engaging toys and playtime instead.
3. Using Punishment Instead of Redirection
❌ Mistake: Spraying them with water or scolding them.
✅ Solution: Redirect them calmly and provide positive reinforcement.
When to Seek Professional Help
If knocking things over persists despite training, consult a:
✔ Veterinarian – To rule out anxiety-related behaviors.
✔ Feline Behaviorist – For additional training techniques.
Conclusion
Stopping your cat from knocking things over requires patience, redirection, and environmental adjustments. By removing breakable objects, providing enrichment, and ignoring attention-seeking behavior, you can successfully train them to leave items alone.
With time and consistency, your cat will find more appropriate ways to play and interact with their environment!