Cats can’t say, “Hey, I’m good. You can stop petting me now.” So they often let their teeth do the talking. But there are other reasons cats might bite. Here’s what I told a reader who wanted to know about her kitten’s biting behavior.
Cats also bite if they don’t like where they’re being petted. Dogs love belly rubs, but cats … not so much. That is the last place you want to reach out and touch them. Even if your cat loves and trusts you, it’s instinctive for him to protect his soft underbelly with a bite or swat. Don’t make him do it!
By becoming aware of your cat’s tolerance levels, reducing triggers that make him bite and not using your hand as a plaything — waggling fingers, for instance — you will protect yourself from his teeth and claws.