Why does my cat bite me?

Cats bite for a variety of reasons, often related to communication or expressing needs.

Common causes include overstimulation from petting, playful behaviour mimicking hunting, attention-seeking, or even affection.

Sometimes, biting can signal fear, pain, or redirected aggression.

Here's what could be going on:

1. Overstimulation:

Unlike dogs, cats generally have a low tolerance for prolonged petting/playing/stimulation.

They may bite when they've reached their limit, even if they were enjoying it initially.

Look for signs like tail flicks, flattened ears, or dilated pupils, which indicate overstimulation.

2. Playfulness:

Kittens and young cats often bite during play, especially if they see hands or feet as "prey".

Redirect this behaviour with appropriate toys like feather wands or laser pointers.

3. Affection:

Some cats give gentle nips as a sign of affection, mimicking the grooming behaviour of their mothers.

These "love bites" are usually soft and don't break the skin.

4. Attention-Seeking:

A nip can be your cat's way of saying they want food, play, or attention.

If your cat bites to get your attention, redirect the behaviour with toys or other activities.

5. Fear and Anxiety:

Cats may bite when they feel cornered, threatened, or scared.

Signs of fear include flattened ears, dilated pupils, hissing, or trying to escape.

6. Pain or Discomfort:

Sudden, unexpected biting can indicate a health issue or pain.

If you notice a change in your cat's behaviour, it's best to consult with your veterinarian.

7. Redirected Aggression:

If your cat is frustrated or stressed by something they can't reach (like a bird outside), they may redirect their aggression and bite you.

8. Inappropriate Play:

If kittens were allowed to play with hands or feet, they may continue this behaviour as adults.

It's important to teach kittens appropriate play behaviour early on.

How to Address Biting:

Identify the cause:

Pay attention to the context of the bite to understand why it's happening.

Redirect play:

Use toys to engage your cat's hunting instincts instead of your hands or feet.

Respect their space:

Avoid petting them when they're in their favourite spots or when they seem stressed.

Seek professional help:

If biting is a persistent problem or seems aggressive, consult with your vet in the first instance to rule out any health factors.