Why Do Cats Bunny Kick? 5 Fascinating Reasons Behind This Behavior

As a cat owner, you must be acquainted with “Bunny Kicks“! This quirky behavior of your cats might entertain you or even surprise you. What are these bunny kicks? Ever wondered why they do that? Ok, you are not alone.

In this article, we will explore five reasons behind the noteworthy behavior known as the bunny kick.

5 reasons why Cats Bunny kick

1. The predatory instincts within

We know cats are wild predators, so when their sublime predatory skills start heating them up, they stimulate hunting by doing bunny kicks. In the wilderness, animals like cats rely on their sharp claws and strong legs to capture prey. It is like starting the engine.

Cats will target and grab the prey with their paws. With rapid kicking motion, cats just simulate the predatory nature inside of them. While playing with a toy or their humans, cats can start bunny kicks anytime.

2. A self-defense technique

Cats are known to be territorial, and they can use bunny kicks as a self-defense technique. House cats live a comfortable life where they don’t have any fear of surviving, but their instincts are there. So, if a cat feels threatened by any means, bunny kicks can be a mechanism to protect itself. You might often find them using bunny kicks while trapped or cornered.

3. Excess energy and playfulness

If you have energetic cats like Bengal or tabby, you will see the bunny kicks often. Cats with high energy engage in various types of behaviors, and bunny kick is one of them. Cats unleash their energy and interact playfully using bunny kicks. With a toy, a cat can use a bunny kick to show their excitement.

4. A sign of affection

Cats are affectionate to their owners, and a bunny kick can signify affection. When they are snuggling or rubbing your hands or you are petting them, they can start gently kicking their paws.

You have seen kittens doing the kneading thing. Bunny kick is also a normal behavior like kneading. An adult cat can bunny kick to show their love and comfort towards the owner.

5. A stress relief method

Cats, just like humans, can be stressed at times. And a bunny kick can be a sign of stress relief for them. Cats are not humans, so they can’t just worry about things, cry, or do shopping. So, one of the most notable ways of relieving stress and self-calming is the bunny kicks.

If a cat feels anxiety or is overwhelmed, they can kick toys or just the empty space to release all worries. In times like this, bunny kick is a natural and instinctive reaction.

Is Bunny kicking normal?

Are you worried about bunny kicking? Don’t! A bunny-kicking cat is absolutely a normal one. Bunny kick is a part of their predatory and basic instincts. Whether it is a kitten or an adult cat, they will bunny kick whenever they feel like it. Nothing is alarming in it. Your furry friend can show their affection towards you by bunny kicking or releasing excessive energy through it.

Most of the cats do bunny kicks while playing. You will see that they start kicking the toy with their back legs, which mimics the action of hunting. Cats are predators and can’t throw their wild nature out of the house. They are domesticated, but the natural instincts are still there.

Do you ever need to be worried about bunny kicks? During petting, if you feel that your feline is getting overstimulated or feels anxious and starts kicking continuously, then you should keep an eye on it to ensure that they are comfortable.

5 ways to prevent a cat’s Bunny kicks?

Although there is nothing to worry about bunny kicking, there might be some moments when you can feel that your cat is stressed or attacking your hands or feet, and you want to manage the behavior.

In such situations, you can follow some simple tips to keep things under control:

1. Redirect their energy

While you are playing with your furry little friend and they start bunny kicking your hands or feeding, it is time to redirect their energy. You can use toys to play with them instead of your hands or feet. Some cats have excessive energy, and at times, they can be overwhelmed. Use toys like feather wands, stuffed toys, or laser pointers to play with them.

2. Avoid overstimulating

Overstimulation can lead a cat to bunny kicking. While playing with them, don’t make them overwork or let them agitate. Pay attention to their needs while you are playing with them or they are playing with toys. Dilated pupils, flicking tails, or flattened ears might suggest your cat needs a break. Try to make them calm when overexcited.

3. Ensure appropriate environment

A proper environment is required for cats to grow up without worries, play as much as they want, and stay calm while needed. Kittens have a lot of energy, and so do some adult breeds, so providing them with appropriate toys is always the best thing to stimulate their minds and bodies. Climbing trees or puzzle feeders can be helpful for your hyperactive cats.

4. Give them space

Cats don’t like mingling all the time. They get irritated easily when they are not ready to be petted by you. So, respect their boundaries. If you barge into their personal space, they might start bunny-kicking. If you find your cat uncomfortable, leave them alone for now.

5. Consult a veterinarian

Bunny kicks are normal and natural for cats, but if you find out that your cat is doing it excessively, then it might need a vet check. try to observe if your cat is agitated, irritated, or overwhelmed by something. Or they might even have injuries. Consult with a veterinarian if required.

Final words

You have a cat, but it performs bunny kicks, which is amusing, right?! Yes, bunny kicking is absolutely usual unless your feline is injured, anxious, or overexcited. Whether your cat is expressing playfulness, showing their basic hunting instincts, or affection towards you, a bunny kick is one of their many quirks. It is fun for us to see and natural for cats. This harmless expression is their normal behavior, so there is nothing more to consider.