Inactive indoor cats bat items off shelves for mental and physical stimulation when lack enrichment.
Bored
Changes to home environment or routine that upset cats may cause acting out by swiping stuff down.
Stressed
Knocking over or rubbing on items deposits scent claiming possession similar to pee marking.
Territory
Swatting fast moving dangles like water droplets or tin foil balls triggers natural hunting instinct.
Prey Drive
Making mess guarantees human interaction - even if negative scolding - for lonely cats.
Want Attention
Cats find reactions like owners startled or having to clean up amusing in their playful mischief.
The Fun Of It!
Young cats 6-18 months old impulsively knock over during hyper play they eventually may outgrow.
Kitten Phase