As devoted cat guardians, we like to believe we do everything to meet our furry companions’ essential needs. We carefully place key resources, buy yet another scratching post, ensure regular playtime, and provide attention and companionship. But when our cat still gets up to mischief, it’s hard not to wonder: Am I doing something wrong?

Today, fabCats, we’ll take a closer look at the feline antics that may actually stem from our own—often unintentional—mistakes. After all, it’s never too late to learn!

Boredom: A mischievous cat’s best friend

You come home from work, and between all the household chores, you don’t have time to pick up the cat wand? Or maybe you just toss your kitty a plush mouse, a ball, or a spring toy to play with on their own? Well, fabCat… you’re practically inviting the chaos yourself! 

Cats are born hunters, and they need an outlet for their energy. If your feline friend is wrecking your home, chewing on cables, or ambushing your legs, it’s a clear sign they lack proper stimulation. Sure, tossing a ball for them to chase is a decent start—if your cat enjoys that kind of play, they’ll stay occupied for a while. But it’s not enough.

Use wand toys, kicker toys, and interactive games that allow your cat to unleash their energy and satisfy their hunting instincts. Their play sessions should follow the sequence: observe → hunt → catch → play → eat. If you stick to this pattern, your cat (and their inner tiger) will be fully satisfied.

Rewarding those irresistible eyes

Who hasn’t been charmed by their cat’s adorable gaze, loud purring, or playful under-the-table ambush? Every fabCat has given in at least once—and there’s no shame in that! But cats are creatures who learn best through positive reinforcement.

If you let your cat playfully bite your hand and find it amusing even for a second, they’ll take it as permission to continue. If you hand over food the moment they start meowing by their bowl, you can bet they’ll keep demanding extra meals at any hour of the day (or night). Even negative attention reinforces their actions—if you react to their mischief, they’ll see it as encouragement to repeat it.

What’s the solution? Only reward desired behaviors and try to ignore your cat when they misbehave. It’s tough, but it works. In this scenario, there are no rewards for cute eyes!

Kitty surveillance: Does your cat have a good view?

Does your cat keep jumping on the table, peeking into the sink, or claiming the kitchen counter? Sorry, fabCat, but it’s not time to hire your feline as a kitchen assistant just yet! There’s a high chance they’re simply lacking good observation spots.

Cats are naturally curious. They love surveying their surroundings from high vantage points, testing everything with their paws, and staying close to their humans—whether directly or from a safe distance. If they don’t have shelves, scratching posts, or perches to satisfy these needs, they’ll find their own alternatives.

Even if your cat is a classic couch potato, create fun climbing and observation spots for them—both to watch over you and to gaze out the window. Once they discover these exciting new spaces, they’ll gladly use them—without the risk of dipping their paws into dirty dishes.

Be consistent, fabCat

If you let your cat on the table one moment and scold them for it the next, you’re sending mixed signals. Set clear rules about what’s allowed and what’s not—and stick to them. This doesn’t mean you can’t change the rules, but once you do, be firm and teach your cat what’s acceptable.

And remember: Redirect their behavior toward something positive!
❌ Don’t want your cat on the table? → ✅ Place a tall scratching post nearby with the same great view.
❌ Couch getting shredded? → ✅ Provide an equally appealing horizontal scratching pad next to it.

In a cat’s world, every “no” should be met with an alternative “yes.”

Cats have needs. Accept them.

It’s unfair to blame a cat for scattering litter everywhere if their box is too small for them to turn around in. It’s no surprise they pull food out of their bowl and eat off the floor—high-rimmed bowls can irritate their sensitive whiskers. Scratched-up furniture with no scratching post nearby? Well, their claws won’t sharpen themselves!

Cats have natural needs that we, their guardians, must meet:
🐾 Scratching – Sharpens claws, marks territory and stretches their muscles.
🐾 Play – Provides both physical and mental stimulation.
🐾 Rest – Helps them recharge and feel safe.

Nothing in a cat’s behavior happens by accident. If they start acting out, take a moment to consider which part of their environment might be failing them.

We promise, fabCat—once you get the hang of it, you’ll quickly understand what your cat is trying to tell you… especially the next time you hear the sound of a figurine crashing to the floor. Hopefully, it didn’t break! 😉

Do any other small mistakes come to mind that might lead to feline mischief? Share them in the comments, fabCat!