How to Respond to Cat Biting
When a cat bites, his sharp teeth cause puncture wounds or scratch the skin and can introduce bacteria into your body that cause infections. Additionally, cat biting signals aggressive behavior. Especially dangerous in households with young children or people with special needs, cat biting may be the symptom of a physical or emotional problem in the cat. Respond to the cat's bites as soon as possible to prevent a problematic behavior from becoming an alarming habit.
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Instructions
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Take your biting cat to the vet to rule out physical pain or another physical condition that causes biting. Spay or neuter your cat to prevent hormonal aggression.
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Pet or handle your cat only when her body language does not show signs of aggression such as pinning ears back, swishing her tail or crouching to pounce. Reward calm behavior with attention and treats. Ignore her when she bites so that you do not reinforce the behavior with attention that she might mistake for play.
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Record in a journal your cat's aggressive, biting times. Try to spot a pattern. Anticipate his aggressive moods and preempt them by playing with him using cat toys. Help him use his natural predatory instincts in a safe and acceptable manner.
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Restrict your cat's access to his favorite stalking spots by blocking off those areas. Learn to look for him before passing and do not allow him to attack you.
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Place your cat alone in a darkened room if she continues aggressive behavior. Check on her periodically and do not play or remove her from the room until she has calmed.
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Tips & Warnings
Reinforce good behavior by playing with your cat frequently when he's in a calm state. Buy a variety of toys and cat furniture to give him plenty of outlets for his "inner lion."
Never physically punish your cat for biting by hitting or tapping her. Such punishments can make your cat more aggressive or fearful.
