Cat parents know the routine: You've just settled down to rest when suddenly, your cat pounces on top of your feet. And don't even think about moving your toes — your feline friend is a stealthy hunter and will jump on those, too.
Why do cats attack feet? And why do cats like feet so much, anyway? If you've ever lay motionless in bed hoping to avoid a foot ambush, these questions probably have crossed your mind.
Why Feet?
It all comes down to instinct. Why do cats attack feet so often? As Cat Health noted, "Cats chase things because it's innate behavior. They're predators, so it's second nature for them to chase things. For some cats, that drive is so strong that your moving feet will trigger it." When your kitty sees your feet moving around under the bed covers, their instincts are on high alert: Attack!
Why do cats like feet in particular? Human feet happen to be the perfect shape and size for their preferred prey. "As cats hunt alone their prey is small in size as this is all they are capable of catching on their own," explained International Cat Care. Beware if you wear big, fuzzy slippers or socks that look conspicuously like small mammals, as this may encourage pouncing.
When Cats Attack Your Feet
Cats are quirky, sometimes complicated creatures that capture the hearts of so many pet parents. They also are very persistent and when cats want your attention, they won't stop until they get it, including jumping at your feet and ankles. Usually, this happens when you're sleeping or trying to work.
Typically, your feline friend swats at your feet because they want food or a snuggle session, or perhaps are acting out aggression. But more often than not, they do it because they want to play. A cat who's looking for a playmate doesn't exhibit hostile or fearful behavior — quite the opposite, in fact.
"The cat does not exhibit dominance posturing toward the victim, and does not retreat from or avoid the victim with characteristic signs of fear," explained the RSPCA Australia. "In fact, the cat often hides behind some furniture and waits until a person walks by, and then dashes out and attacks the person's ankles." Sound familiar? Kittens, in particular, are notorious for such behavior and will lunge at your feet, even if you're just walking across the room minding your own business.
Tasty Tips
Feline Aggression
Sometimes, cats can become overzealous during playtime and take it to the next level, such as biting or scratching that breaks the skin. You'll recognize cat aggression when you see it. In addition to biting, an aggressive cat will display one or more of the following behaviors:
- Growling
- Hissing
- Exposed claws
- Open mouth
- Stiffened stance
- Arched back
Aggression is often the result of roughhousing gone wild, hostility caused by an outside factor such as an illness, or defending territory against a new pet in the family. Why do cats like feet when it comes to acting out aggression? Feet are easily accessible and mimic the movements of an animal.
To calm an aggressive cat, avoid roughhousing and redirect their attention. "A cat that habitually chases a person's feet is distracted (redirected) when a toy is waved in its face so the cat plays with the toy instead of focusing on the person's feet," said the American Animal Hospital Association. Invest in some soft, squishy toys that will make your feet less desirable as chew toys.
When to Call the Vet
Contact your veterinarian to discuss any worries that you have about your cat's aggressive behavior — the sooner the better, advised the American Association of Feline Practitioners. The vet will ask you questions about other behaviors, including destructive habits like scratching furniture, so jot down a list of concerns, including the question, of why cats attack feet. Together, you and your vet can address your cat's erratic behavior.
Understanding your cat's body language and knowing which behaviors are normal (and which are not) are two important tools that will lead to more positive interactions with your cat. With a little time and a little patience, your feet will be safe and sound.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock & Barley Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Senior Vitality Adult 7+ Tuna & Vegetables Stew
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Low calorie formula with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help promote an ideal body weight
Hill's Science Diet Adult Urinary Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée cat food
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Salmon & Vegetable Medley Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory salmon and vegetables
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Entrée Variety Pack
Feline Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Ocean Fish & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system
Related articles
Preparing Your Nervous Cat for Large Gatherings at Home
Having a large group over? Learn some helpful ways to prepare your nervous cat and keep her from feeling overwhelmed by the amount of people and noise.
Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out?
They look super cute when doing it, but why do cats stick their tongue out? Read on to find out what it means!
Weight Control Food for Cats: Key Features and Feeding Tips
What is the best food for an overweight cat? Learn all about weight control food for cats, including what's in it and how it works.
Why Do Cats Bunny Kick?
Learn what a bunny kick is and the reasons your cat likes to do it, from just playing around to indicating aggression.
Cat Vision: How Do They See the World?
Discover some myths and truths about how your cat sees the world, including whether they have night vision and if they are actually colorblind.
Cats and Christmas Trees: How to Keep Both Safe
While it might be nearly impossible to separate your cat from your Christmas tree, learn ways you can combat her curiosity and keep her out of harm's way.
Causes & Signs of Dental Disease in Cats
Recognize the importance of proper dental hygiene in your cat's overall health. Learn about causes of dental disease, and questions you should ask your vet.
Can Cats Have Allergies? Signs, Common Types & Treatments
Learn about common cat allergies, including clinical signs, the most common types of allergies and treatment options for your cat.
Helping Your Cat Recover from Serious Illness or Accidents
Illnesses, accidents and surgeries are an unfortunate consequence of life, even for cats. Understand how nutrition can play a role in your cat's recovery.
Joint Issues and Hip Dysplasia in Cats
What is feline hip dysplasia? Learn all about joint diseases and hip dysplasia in cats, including possible causes and how to help your cat feel better.
Types of Cat Litter & How to Choose the Right One
Sift through our guide to learn about the many different types of cat litter and how to choose the best one for your feline friend.
How Do You Manage Hairballs in Cats?
Most cat owners have to deal with hairballs at some point. Learn everything you need to know about hairballs and how to help your cat manage them.
Skin Lumps on a Cat: Types, Causes & Treatment
Learn about types of skin lumps that can occur on a cat, why they happen, what each type means (i.e. fluid filled, etc.), and how they are treated.
Do Cats Fart?
While it may not be common, cats to indeed pass gas. Learn how your cat's food impacts their gassiness and whether you need to be concerned.
Bladder Stones in Cats: Types, Symptoms & Treatment
Learn all about bladder stones in cats: Specific types of stones, clinical symptoms your cat might be showing, and typical treatment options from a vet.
Debunking Myths: Is Wet Food Bad for Cats' Teeth?
Is wet food bad for cats' teeth? Furthermore, does wet food cause dental problems in cats? Get your facts straight here.
4 Ways to Help Your Cat Maintain an Ideal Weight
Follow these 4 easy steps to help your cat attain its ideal weight and maintain a healthy weight for life.
How to Make Your Cat Feel Safe on Halloween
Can Cats Get Lyme Disease?
Learn how common lyme disease is for cats, signs of the disease, treatment options and prevention tips (especially during tick season).
Antifreeze Poisoning in Cats & What to Do If Your Cat Drank It
Learn about antifreeze and cats: what to do if your cat drank antifreeze, symptoms of antifreeze poisoning to watch for, treatment and prevention.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.