Why does my cat chew on cardboard and stare at me? If your cat eats cardboard, plastic, paper, or something along those lines while staring at you, it’s probably a call for attention. Same thing if the cat stares at you while knocking things down on the floor. Cats are clever, and know you’re likely to react when they do things like this. Take it as a compliment – your kitty wants you to spend more time with them. Giving your cat regular interactive playtime with you can solve many problems. Another way of communicating that seems counterproductive to us humans is when a cat presents its butt to you. This is a huge compliment and means you’re a trusted friend.