Why Do Cats Kick Their Toys?
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If you have a cat, you've probably seen it grab a toy with its front paws and kick it hard with its back legs. It looks cute, but why do cats do it?
Why do cats kick their toys? Cats kick their toys because it is part of play that copies hunting and wrestling. Holding a toy and "bunny kicking" it with the hind legs is the same move cats use when wrestling with other cats or subduing prey. In most cases, your cat is simply playing.
Sometimes the kicking is more serious, so it helps to know the difference.
Why Do Cats Kick Their Toys?
There are two main reasons.
They Are Being Playful
Most of the time, kicking is play. Healthy cats, especially young ones, enjoy wrestling with toys, other cats and sometimes people.
The ASPCA notes that play aggression is the most common type of aggressive behavior cats direct toward their owners. It includes normal predatory moves such as stalking, chasing, pouncing and attacking.
Even playful kicks can leave painful scratches if your cat grabs your hand or arm. Don't use your hands or feet as toys. When your cat starts kicking at you, calmly redirect it to a toy it can grab and kick, such as a long, plush "kicker" toy.
They Are Being Aggressive
Kicking can also be part of a real fight. A cat that rolls onto its back or side can defend itself with all four sets of claws plus its teeth at once.
If your cat is truly upset, its kicks are meant to drive away a threat, whether that's another pet or you.
How Can You Tell If It's Aggressive Or Playful?
Watch your cat's body language. Signs that a cat is agitated or defensive include ears flattened or turned back, wide pupils, a lashing or thumping tail, hissing and growling.
If you see these signs, give your cat space and let it calm down before you interact. Never punish a frightened or angry cat, since that can make fear and aggression worse.
A cat that is playing usually looks loose and relaxed, may pounce and dart around, and is silent or chirps rather than hisses. If that's what you see, there's nothing to worry about.
Sudden or unusual aggression can be a sign of pain or illness, so check with your vet if your cat's behavior changes.
Should You Prevent Your Pet Cat From Kicking Their Toys?
No. Kicking toys is a healthy outlet for your cat's hunting instincts, so let it play.
Do discourage kicking and biting aimed at your hands, legs or other pets. Redirect your cat to kick a toy instead, and give it regular play sessions so it can burn off energy.
Final Verdict
Cats kick their toys because it's part of normal play that mimics hunting and wrestling. Let your cat kick its toys, but steer those kicks away from your body with toys made for the job.
If the kicking comes with flattened ears, hissing or other signs of fear or anger, give your cat space and talk to your vet if the behavior is new.
Sources
- Aggression in Cats, ASPCA
- Feline Behavior Problems: Aggression, Cornell Feline Health Center
