Cats bite for several key reasons including communication, play, stress, fear, and overstimulation. Common reasons your cat may bite you include:
- Scared or stressed: When trapped or threatened, cats may bite as a last resort, often giving warning signs like hissing, crouching, or puffed fur beforehand.
- Overstimulation: Playing or petting may lead to biting if the cat gets too excited or misdirects hunting instincts onto you.
- Play aggression: Cats often bite gently during play, especially if they were encouraged to use hands or feet as toys when young.
- Attention seeking or frustration: Biting can be a way to get your attention when the cat feels ignored or wants you to play.
- Communication: Cats use gentle love bites to show affection or signal they want something.
- Pain or illness: Sudden biting behavior changes may indicate discomfort or a health issue.
Your cat's biting behavior usually has a motive based on their feelings, environment, or communication needs. Understanding body language and context is key to managing and reducing biting incidents safely.
