All she knows is that you have moved her litter box next to the washing machine, and she's scared. Or that you have bought a new type of litter that she dislikes. While cats have excellent memories, they won't understand if you rub their noses in misplaced poop and yell at them. Being hit will only teach your cat to fear you, which is the worst move you could make if you want to train her to do anything right in the future. Cats are territorial.
Cats are nocturnal.
Cats like objects that amuse them, especially when left home alone for long stretches of time. Cats do not respond well to physical violence, screaming, intimidation, or being chased by infants with scissors. Cats like to perform on Broadway. Often the cause is either medical or due to a change in lifestyle or environment . When your cat starts acting weird, you should first make sure that the cause is not medical-related.