True or false: Knock it off! Cats are purposefully being rude by knocking things over.
Answer: False 

It may feel personal, but actually, your cat isn’t being rude at all! They’re exercising their inborn need to hunt by finding “prey” wherever they can, including on your shelves and tables. Plus, they learn very quickly that knocking things over will bring you running. So guess how they’ll get your attention when they’re hungry?

That doesn’t mean you have to accept all your vases and glasses getting shattered. You can help your cat stop this cute but annoying behavior by providing them lots of other toys to hunt throughout their day. Rotate the toys out every few days to keep the “prey” new and interesting.

You can also show your cat that they will get your attention for good behaviors instead of destructive ones. Schedule plenty of play and cuddle time throughout the day, and try not to come running every time your cat knocks something over. If the item is something safe and non-breakable, like keys or a pen, then wait to respond. Soon your cat will learn that this isn’t a reliable way to get your attention.

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