Cat Biting
How To Avoid A Cat Biting Incident
Cat biting and cat scratching are two of the most natural things in the world, for a cat. Being predators, biting and scratching are their means of attack, and defense, and it is only natural that they will feel compelled to do one or the other from time to time. Some cats bite, just as some horses kick, and teaching them not to may or may not be easy. You do have to let them know however, that such activity is not acceptable under certain circumstances, and/or simply avoid situations when such incidents are apt to occur.
When you've raised a cat from a kitten, and it is very affectionate, but suddenly turns on you, or gives you a bite, there's a reason. Cats seldom do anything without having a reason, and that reason has to do with something the cat believes to be in its best interest. A cat biting incident usually stems from fear or anxiety, discomfort, anger, or play. The latter occurs when, during an episode of play, the predator kicks in and the cat forgets that the finger you've been tickling it with is a plaything, and it becomes an object of prey.
A biting incident doesn't necessarily mean that anything is wrong with your cat. Most cats love being petted or stroked. Some love it more than others, which simply means that after a few minutes, some cats have had enough petting, and if you persist you'll eventually have a bite mark to show for it. Watch for warning signs that a cat has had enough. Our cat loves being petted 90% of the time. The other 10% you'll be rewarded with a hiss if you try, which should be warning enough. If you don't take the hint, a growl comes next. If you still don't take the hint, you'll probably get what you deserve, a bite. Be on the look out for hisses, growls, switching tails, and flat ears, all signs that your cat wants you somewhere else. Where cats like or dislike being touched can vary from cat to cat. Some like a tummy rub, some do not. Some take it as a game and teeth and claws come out. No harm is meant, but bites and scratches still hurt. Most cats don't like having their legs or paws handled either. It's a good idea to get an understanding of what your cat likes or dislikes, as far as being touched or stroked is concerned, and how much it will permit of those things it likes.
Fear will also motivate a cat to bite, and many things can be behind that fear. Cats seem to like being number one in the household. The introduction of a new pet, or a visit from an unfamiliar person, can result in a cat being removed from its comfort zone, its place in the sun, and a bite may serve warning that it doesn't like the new situation.
A bite can also mean that something is wrong with the cat. If you are used to picking up your cat without a problem, and suddenly it becomes aggressive or fearful, there's a good chance that something is wrong with it. Picking it up has caused pain or discomfort of some sort. It will be a good idea to contact your veterinarian when this is the case.
If your cat first came to your house as a kitten, you've probably not had any problem in socializing it. Kittens seem to love people, and the companionship provided. You will only have to teach them not to be overly aggressive when playing. Holding them by the scruff of the neck (not too harshly) is a good way to discipline them. There are occasional exceptions to the "nice little kitty". Once in awhile I would come across a "nest" of young kittens in my grandfather's barn. Kittens who weren't used to humans. They would eventually become quite friendly, but the first time you picked one up you'd better be wearing heavy gloves!
The best way to avoid a cat biting episode is to know your cat, its likes and dislikes, and pay particular attention when a bite may mean the cat is not feeling well.