Biting and nipping are normal feline behaviors; cats use their mouth and paw to investigate their surroundings. Although you cannot stop your cat from engaging in these undesirable behaviors, there are ways to teach your pet to lessen the force of his bite and to use his paws without extending his claws. Your pet should realize that his teeth and claws hurt when he bites or nips, even if it’s just play. The kittens first realize this when their littermates shout out in pain during play or when their mother disciplines them because of the behavior. This shows that training of good manners and proper behavior in kittens starts while they are still with their mother and littermates.

Here are some tips to prevent being nipped or bitten by pet cats during play or interaction:

• Don’t let your pet play with your bare hands, fingers, or toes.
• Offer several cat-safe chew toys for your pet.
• Be quick to reinforce positively with lots of praise and his favorite treat for using a ‘soft’ mouth or paw.
• When the cat starts using his claws or teeth during play, be quick to hiss to show your disapproval of his behavior ; but, make sure not to hiss too often for this can stop being effective in correcting behavior.

Talk to your veterinarian Cedar Rapids, IA if you have problems with your pet’s health and/or behavior.