Why does my cat bite me? Types of bites and how to prevent them

A bite from your cat can be play, affection or a warning. Learn to tell them apart and to teach your cat not to use its teeth on you.

Key takeaways

Cats almost always bite out of play, overstimulation or fear.
They usually warn first with the tail, ears and eyes.
Never punish: offer toys and end the game in time.

Cats don't bite "for no reason"

For a cat, biting is a way to play, communicate or defend itself. Understanding why it does it is the first step to fixing it, because the same bite can mean very different things.

The most common reasons

Play: kittens that never learned to control their strength, or that were played with using hands, think your fingers are prey.
A love nibble: a gentle touch, without pain, while you pet it. It's a sign of trust.
Overstimulation: after petting that goes on too long, many cats bite to say "enough".
Fear or defense: if it feels cornered, it bites to protect itself.
Redirected aggression: it gets worked up by something it can't reach, like a cat outside, and bites whoever is near.
Pain: a cat that bites when touched in a specific spot may be hurting.
Teething: kittens bite more while their adult teeth come in.

The warning signs

There are almost always warnings before a bite: a tail lashing hard, ears pinned back or flattened, wide pupils, rippling skin on the back and a tensed body. If you see any of these, stop touching. Learn to read them with our What is my pet telling me? tool.

How to prevent bites

Don't play with your hands. Use feather wands, mice or balls so the game goes to them and not your fingers.
If it bites, end the game without shouting. Stay still, pull your hand away and offer a toy.
Stop petting before it gets annoyed. Pet the head and cheeks, and avoid the belly and base of the tail.
Burn off its energy. Two play sessions a day of 10 to 15 minutes greatly reduce biting. Try our cat game.
Give it a place to hide and don't corner it.
Reward the good: when it plays gently, reward it with a treat.

What not to do

Don't shout, hit or blow in its face. Cats don't understand punishment, and you'll only make it fear you and bite more. Don't wrestle with your hands either: it teaches your cat that biting you is fun.

What a well-trained play bite looks like

A cat that has learned to play gently keeps its claws in, bites without pressure and lets go when the game ends. To get there, always play with toys, end each session by letting it "catch" its prey, and give it a treat or its meal afterwards. That way the hunting cycle is completed and the tension it would otherwise take out on you goes down.

When to see the vet

If your cat suddenly starts biting, does it when touched in a specific place or also eats less, hides or changes personality, take it to the vet. It may be pain or illness. If the behavior is very aggressive and doesn't improve, a feline behaviorist can help.

Frequently asked questions

Why does it bite me after I pet it? Probably overstimulation. Learn to stop when its tail lashes or ears flatten.

Why does it bite my feet? Feet moving under blankets or while you walk trigger its hunting instinct. Give it toys and play before bed.

Are cat bites dangerous? They can get infected easily. Wash the wound with soap and water and see a doctor if there's swelling, redness or fever.

This article is for information only and does not replace a visit to your vet.