How to Stop a Cat From Jumping at the Television

Reduce access to the screen, secure the TV and redirect hunting energy into safe toys when a cat repeatedly launches at moving images.

Practical steps

1. Anchor the television or place it beyond easy reach using a pet-safe setup.
2. Move tempting furniture away from the screen if practical.
3. Temporarily stop exciting prey videos while retraining the behavior.
4. Offer short wand-toy sessions with predictable movement.
5. Reward calm settling on a nearby perch and keep cords protected.

What explains the result?

Chasing projected or displayed prey can be rewarding to a cat, but a screen cannot be physically caught. Real play creates a safer outlet for stalking and pouncing.

What to avoid

Do not punish the cat for chasing the image; address access, stimulation and safety instead.

Frequently asked question

Can you keep showing cat TV?

Possibly, once the cat reliably watches calmly, but some cats are better off without moving prey footage.