What is what to do when kitten bites?

Here's some information about dealing with kitten biting:

Kitten biting is a common behavior, especially during play. It's rarely malicious; usually, it's a sign of overexcitement, lack of bite inhibition, or simply a way to explore the world. Here's what you can do:

• Understand the Cause: Before addressing the biting, try to determine why your kitten is biting. Is it during play? Is it when being petted? Understanding the trigger will help you tailor your response. Is your kitten <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/overstimulated%20kitten">overstimulated kitten</a>?

• Redirect their Attention: When your kitten starts to bite, immediately stop what you're doing and redirect their attention to an appropriate toy. A <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/wand%20toy">wand toy</a> or a small plush toy are great options. This teaches your kitten that biting people doesn't get them attention or playtime.

• Don't Punish: Never punish your kitten physically or verbally. This will only frighten them and damage your bond. Punishment can also make the biting worse as it increases anxiety and fear.

• Say "Ouch!" or Make a Noise: Mimic what a littermate cat would do. When a kitten bites too hard during play, their littermate will often yelp or hiss. A sharp "ouch!" or a similar sound can surprise your kitten and make them stop. After the noise, immediately withdraw your attention.

• Withdraw Attention: If redirecting doesn't work, and the biting continues, immediately end the play session. Stand up, turn away, and ignore the kitten. This teaches them that biting means the fun stops.

• Teach Bite Inhibition: If your kitten bites during petting, try to determine if they are overstimulated. If so, reduce the amount of petting or change the way you are petting them. Biting can also indicate pain if this is a sudden change in behavior, so consider a vet check to rule this out.

• Provide Plenty of Play: Ensure your kitten gets plenty of interactive playtime each day. This will help them burn off energy and satisfy their hunting instincts in a healthy way. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Interactive%20play">Interactive play</a> should mimic their natural behavior and hunting.

• Avoid Using Your Hands as Toys: Never use your hands or fingers as playthings. This will only encourage the kitten to bite and scratch them.

• Consider a Second Kitten: If possible, consider getting a second kitten. Kittens learn appropriate play behavior from each other, including how hard is too hard. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/two%20kittens">Two kittens</a> will also occupy one another which can help prevent boredom.

• Be Patient: It takes time for kittens to learn bite inhibition. Be consistent with your training methods, and your kitten will eventually learn to play gently.