Cat biting is a normal behavior among cats, but there are reasons that a cat may begin to bite more frequently and ways that you can help to reduce it. Without speech and other means of communication, a bite or scratch is one of the best ways that a cat has to get your attention, and it is often a good indication that something is the matter. Still, it is important to learn to distinguish between playful biting and biting that may indicate a problem of some kind.
Play Biting
Some cats tend to bite while playing. You may find that your cat bites while overstimulated or when you are playing with him. Other cats just bite in a playful manner while you are walking by or petting them. This depends entirely upon your pet's behavior, with some cats much more likely to bite than others are. More often than not, however, cats tend to bite when play gets too aggressive or too frantic. If your cat begins to bite you while you're playing, leave the situation and allow your pet some time to calm down. You may also wish to incorporate toys with long handles in your playtime with your cat so that he can't have access to your hands.
Fear or Aggression Biting
Cats occasionally bite as a protective measure. In the wild, a cat's bite can help to save it from predator attacks. Your pet may bite because he senses some danger. Be aware of children in the house that may play too rough, or if you have other pets that may threaten your cat. Many cats live in fear of dogs and other animals that chase them.
Some cats bite as part of aggressive behavior. While this situation is less common than aggressive behavior in dogs, it is a problem for certain animals. You may find that your cat develops aggressive behavior while in the presence of other cats. Mother cats often display aggressive behavior while around their young, as their instincts dictate that they protect their kittens.
Pain Biting
If your cat begins to bite without any apparent reason or justification, he may be uncomfortable or in pain. A wide number of underlying medical conditions can cause pain or discomfort in your pet in ways that may not be visible to you. One of the primary signs of pain biting is when your pet lashes out and begins biting in random situations in which he is otherwise entirely calm. Be on the lookout for other signs of an underlying health condition, and have your pet examined by a veterinarian immediately if the biting continues.
If your cat's biting develops into a problem for you or anyone else in your home, speak with a veterinarian about ways that you can help to reduce your pet's behavior. Sometimes simple behavior changes and lifestyle adjustments can dramatically reduce your pet's biting.