Most cat owners know the feeling: you’re sitting with your cat on the sofa and absentmindedly begin stroking them, only for them to spoil the nice moment by biting or scratching you. While this petting-induced aggression may be unsettling, it’s not that your cat doesn’t like you but more likely a result of overstimulation during petting sessions. In the wild, cats use their teeth and claws for hunting, defending territory, and asserting dominance. While domestic cats have evolved from their wild ancestors, these instincts remain deeply ingrained in their behaviour.
Why your cat gives love bites
Cat love bites typically occur when you’re stroking your feline friend and shouldn’t be confused with other types of aggressive biting. As your cat’s grooming behaviour becomes more intense, they may put their teeth on you, but it's not accompanied by any aggression and doesn't break the skin. These love bites can be your cat’s way of expressing their affection for you, and a gentle nip is their version of a warm hug, especially when accompanied by headbutts, purring or kneading. Cats also tend to bite their owners during playtimes, which is entirely normal. They are simply using their hunting instincts.
How to manage cat love bites
One of the most effective ways to prevent future nips from your cat is to study their body language. Look out for signs they might be uncomfortable, such as a twitching tail or ears to the side. If your cat does either of these things, then stop stroking them. You can also take note of any patterns in your cat's love bite behaviour. For instance, if your cat tends to bite after five strokes, stop at four. It’s also a good idea to keep stroking sessions brief while pausing to check whether the cat is still interested.
If love bites from your cat become too frequent, try incorporating cat toys to redirect their biting or provide a soft blanket for them to knead. Petting sessions are usually more successful if you check your cat wants to be stroked before you start. Hold your hand out an inch or two from your cat’s head, and if they lean into your hand, it’s a good sign they want to be petted. If your cat does bite you during a petting session, it’s important that you never shout, spray, or frighten them, as this can cause them to respond with genuine aggression.
What does it mean when a cat bites you then licks you?
If your cat bites and licks you, they could be overstimulated, want to communicate excitement or initiate play with you. Licking is often a sign of affection and social bonding for cats. When a bite is followed by licking, this could be reassuring behaviour, similar to grooming. Your cat might be expressing a mix of playful energy, affection and desire to establish a closer connection with you. It's crucial to observe your cat's body language and context to interpret these actions accurately, as individual cats may have unique ways of expressing their feelings through a combination of bites and licks. If the biting behaviour continues, it’s best to leave them alone for a while so they can calm down and settle.
Why does my cat bite me when I walk by?
If your cat bites you when you walk by, it could be a mix of playfulness, curiosity, or a desire for attention. Cats are natural hunters, and their instinctual behaviour may lead them to playfully nip as you walk by. For your cat, your feet or ankles might be intriguing, moving targets. Additionally, some cats use gentle biting as a form of communication or to seek attention. If the bites are gentle and non-aggressive, it's likely your cat's way of engaging with you.
The occasional bite from your feline friend is not necessarily a sign of aggression or displeasure. Understanding the nuances of cat behaviour, respecting their natural instincts, and being attuned to their body language will help you build a strong and harmonious bond with your cat.
