3 reasons why cats bite – and how to get them to stop

The needle-sharp little fangs can strike at the most unexpected moments: when you gently stroke them after a long day, for example. You both feel relaxed, and boom, you've got their teeth in your hands. To say that this behaviour kills the moment is an understatement. Of course, this is not without reason.

Most owners complain about this behaviour, so you are definitely not alone. Here is what can cause cat bites and how to deal with it.

What is a love bite and what is not?

An aggressive bite is always a defence, which in all cases is a result of stress, fear and territorial behaviour. The love-bite is more gentle and playful and is “used” by cats while being petted.

This type of bite does not usually cause bleeding or deep wounds, only surface scratches. It starts with licking and as this process intensifies, the small teeth press more firmly into the skin. Body language is always revealing, so if the biting is not accompanied by a humped back, ruffled fur, hissing or growling, there is no sign of aggression.

Why does the cat behave like this?

Unfortunately, almost no research has been done on the subject, and the following explanations are based on speculation.

The term love-hate is a bit of a misnomer:

When cats bite in this context, it is not a sign of affection, but rather an indication that the cat is done interacting. If the petting continues despite the cat trying to signal that it should be over, they will bite to let you know that the party is over and it’s time to go home.”

– explains Dr Kelly Ballantyne, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviourist.

In the case of a love bite, it is also possible that it is unintentional. When your kitten starts grooming you, part of the process is to use its teeth to try and pick out a particular area. It is also worth bearing in mind that not all cats enjoy being stroked and may be trying to signal that they are disturbed by the activity as a whole or just by the chosen area.

In kittens, biting and jumping is perfectly normal play behaviour. This is how they play with their mothers and their litter mates; to imitate the capture of prey.

How should we respond to this behaviour?

Even in the case of love bites, where body language does not indicate aggression, it is worth observing the circumstances. What’s the point where when you pet your cat, it always ends up biting? Approximately how many minutes, how many strokes is your kitty’s tolerance? And most importantly, does it even like to be stroked or is it enough for it to be close to you?

When petting your pet, keep the interaction short, with pauses. Stick to the points most cats accept, which are the ears and under the chin. This technique will help you avoid getting their teeth into you. If you haven’t stopped in time, don’t panic, just stop. You should never punish a cat for trying to let you know, by its own means, that enough is enough.