It is natural for kittens to play aggressively. Most of the people choose kittens as pets because they seem to be sweet and cuddly, but they are not aware of their mood. They can use their teeth and claws most of the time. Please note that they can be rough when playing. Kittens play aggressively as a normal part of growing up as they learn the predatory skills a cat needs in the wild to survive. However, you can be sure that most kittens outgrow this aggressive stage and become sweet and adorable cats who would never think of hurting you, be it biting or scratching.

Aggressive behavior of kittens during play

Kittens start playing when they are very young. This involves horseplay and somersaults with his mother and siblings. It is normal for young kittens to chase, fight, bite, scratch, jump, and stalk their mother and siblings. In general, this is considered “sham” aggression. The kitty does not intend to hurt anyone, but rather wants to have a good time. This is normal kitten behavior.

Kittens learn to interact within their litter and reduce their overly aggressive behavior. When a kitten becomes very aggressive towards a sibling, the sibling often corrects this action by retaliating, growling, or simply stops playing because he is hurt. The offender just wants to play and therefore discovers that being too aggressive could stop game time. When the kitten becomes too aggressive, his mother gives him a warning with a slap or growl. The kittens continue to signal each other to show that the interaction involves play and not aggressive behavior. Subconsciously, a kitten learns to control aggression by interacting with its mother and his siblings.

How to prevent a kitten from biting and scratching

Biting and scratching occur as a consequence of the owner’s actions. It’s nearly impossible for some owners to resist the urge to fight with their playful kitty. When they fight with their kitty, they usually let it bite and scratch their hand. Although this may seem cute at first, it will no longer be as the kitten grows into a strong cat, and rough play with it could cause pain and bleeding.

Try the following tips to prevent your kitty from biting and scratching:

Your kitty craves your attention and often wants to play, but try to divert her attention away from her body parts and toward a soft toy or group of toys that are her size. Wobble or move the toy in an enticing way. Let your kitty fight with it.

When the game gets really rough and the kitty starts biting or scratching you, it’s time to stop playing. Your kitten can learn from you just like he learns from his mother and his siblings. Once he starts biting or scratching and gets too aggressive, the game is simply over. Just say “NO” in a firm tone, clap your hands loudly, and then walk away, ignoring your kitty.