Why a Biting Cat may not be a Mean Cat

A biting cat may not be a mean cat. Cat Aggression may occur when a cat seems to be playing. More times than not, you have to provoke a cat to aggressiveness. If a cat is scared, the first response is for it to bolt away like lightening. It usually does not bite as a first natural instinct. While a cat may not be “mean,” it can definitely be aggressive.

This being said, when was the last time you heard of a cat being put to sleep or in a shelter because it was a biting cat? Not too often. When there are reports of biting cats it usually because of physical pressure and stress combined, or because they are ill. These are some of the factors in aggressive dog behavior. If it seems to be a mean cat it is because there are reasons for it.

Aggressive cat behavior can be prompted, for example, by deliberate provocation or abnormal human behavior. If a cat senses a threat by a person's body language, tone of voice, or physical abuse, it might respond according to the threat (wouldn’t you do the same). If the activity is repeated then the cat will have a heightened sense of alert when around that individual or in that situation. 

Cats are generally creatures of habit. Unlike aggressive dogs, you usually don't hear about cats that have killed or serious hurt somebody after getting out of control. Cats that are known as scratching cats or biting cats are often not labeled as such without there being some history or reason behind it. To a certain degree there is a playful biting or scratching such as is observed in kittens.

Many times aggressive play can be mistaken for as a mean cat. You see this aggressive play when they have fun with a toy mouse. The aggressive behavior is probably most often misunderstood when that cat seemingly attacks. Once (actually more than once!) my hand was hanging from the chair while I was relaxing on the back porch. Suddenly my relaxing, harmless hand became the victim of a cat attack. The cat suddenly pounced with teeth and claw. Now I have to say that I only suffered some very light scratches. I think this would be an example of aggressive play. I did not provoke the cat. He simply decided that it was time to play.

One of the main reasons for cat biting is our lack of knowledge of the cues that a cat is uncomfortable. In most cases, a cat would welcome lots of petting for a lengthy time. But there is a limit! This fine line may not be noticed by the owner. There may be clues such as eye movement, a moving tail and ears that pull back. If you are not paying attention and don't stop the petting, you could receive a good bite or scratch from your favorite kitty.

You should know your cat well. This includes any wounds or other cat health warning signs. If your cat is not well then he is more prone to bit. Your cat could be experiencing difficulties from fleas or parasites, or with a hormonal imbalance. If you notice anything strange then seek the advice of a veterinarian.

It is normal for young cats and kittens to play aggressively with other cats. When around humans then perhaps have the same intent to play, but do not realize the delicate nature of skin, particularly if it is that of a baby or young children. It is important that you realize that what may be playful cat biting with other cats could be harmful biting with toddlers and small children. Dog biting is usually much more aggressive and follows a pattern that is more aggressively dealt with by authorities. The injuries are more severe, thus requiring more serious dog bite prevention.

Handing a biting cat mostly involves getting familiar with the cat, avoiding rough play and understanding his body language. A biting cat is most likely not a mean cat, but rather one that has been provoked, misunderstood, or is sick. Find out more about how you can find out more about how you can calm an aggressive cat that is a seemingly mean cat.