22 Cats Whose Hunting Instincts Kicked In—Except They Forgot How It Works (23 Photos)

We often joke about house cats being fierce predators, unaware that their wild instincts can awaken at any moment. When that happens, anything from a garden hose to a pair of slippers can become unsuspecting prey. Luckily for us, these "wild hunts" deliver maximum entertainment and minimal actual casualties. Here is a roundup of hilarious social media photos featuring our favorite fluffy hunters showing off their fierce "skills."







A true predator always studies its prey's habits first





Focusing so hard his tongue popped out



"It ran off that way..."



Found where the good treats were hiding



Nobody told him parrots are technically prey



"Preparing to strike!"



"The bee struck first, and now this hunter's swollen nose can be seen from a mile away."



He's already mastered the proud pose. Now he just needs to catch something.



"Even fearsome predators need snuggles."



"I've got my eye on you!"



This gang of tiny hunters could strike fear into any beast



"Lying in ambush is exhausting work."



He makes a new friend with every hunt



A real mouse would have died of laughter by now



"So what if it isn't edible? It might come in handy around the house."



"I have vanquished the terrifying furry beast!"



Fierce, dangerous, and even sporting some very stylish stripes



A tech-savvy hunter who knows exactly which mouse to catch



"This lizard was hibernating when our cat found it. It didn't even try to wake up and run away."



"That shadow looks extremely suspicious."



"Has a mouse come through here? What if I double-check?"



An ambush in the bathtub lasts right up until the very first drop of water