More American households now have resident cats than dogs (Source: HSUS.org). And it’s a funny thing with cats, people either really love them or really hate them, there doesn’t seem to be a middle ground. But nobody likes a cat who bites, and sometimes it’s very difficult to understand why your fluffy little pussycat has turned into a fierce tigress.
Cat bites can be much more serious than dog bites because of the shape and sharpness of the feline tooth. According to the CDC, 40% of all cat bites results in infection. The reason for this is because the tooth is curved, and very sharp. So the puncture wound is quite deep. What typically happens is that the wound will heal over, giving the victim the impression that the wound is healing well. But underneath an abscess can be forming and is not discovered until it becomes infected.
Avoiding Cat Bites
A cornered cat will always look for an escape route. No “fight or flight” decisions here, they will always choose “flight”. So if you come upon a frightened cat, give him an out and he’ll take it. If you are attempting to catch a stray cat, watch for signs that the cat is angry or frightened. A cat, like any other animal, will try to look larger by puffing up their fur, standing on their toes and arching their backs. If you see this behavior, it’s best to leave the animal alone.
Love Bites
And what about the cat who bites his owner while being petted? Love bites are a common occurrence and can be confusing for new cat owners. You may find yourself lovingly petting your cat while watching television or reading a book, not paying much attention to your cat when out of the blue your cat bites your arm or hand with no advance warning and no provocation. What the heck is that about?
Anyone witnessing the mating of two cats would quickly see the passion and energy that goes into “the act.” One reason is that your cat has become over stimulated and offers the love bite as a way of engaging you in what he thinks is an act between two consenting adults. But other experts believe that when we are petting our cat, we are simulating the mother cat (called the Queen) when she licks her kittens while cleaning and bonding with them. At some point during the petting, the cat may see your hand as a big, heavy paw that is becoming a bit more dominant than kitty is comfortable with.
Body Language
Those who are watching closely will see almost imperceptible changes in their cat’s body. His body will stiffen and his head will turn slightly in your direction. His eyes will open and his ears will flatten slightly. The bite will be swift but if you notice your cat’s body stiffening, you can avoid it. Admittedly, this is not easy when you’re lost in a good book or engaging show.
If this does happen, it’s best to gently push the cat off your lap with a loud clap and “NO” or “BAD KITTY”. Don’t ever hit your cat because that will cause him to defend himself and the situation will escalate. Ignore him for a time and he will get the message.
Cat’s Don’t Show Pain
Cats are masters at pretending they are not in pain when they are. This is a throwback behavior when an ill or injured member of the pride would become a liability to the entire pride. So, in order to keep their feline friends from finding out they can no longer hunt or kill prey, they disguise their pain.
A cat in pain may bite because he’s not feeling well. Maybe he wants to be left alone or perhaps he has an area on his body that is hurting him, and when you pet him you inadvertently cause pain in that tender area. Watch for other signs of a health issue: How is his appetite been lately? Is there anything unusual in the litter box such as bloody stool, diarrhea or blood in the urine? Has he avoided play when he usually engages? These are all signs that your kitty may be in pain or not feeling well. He needs to see a veterinarian.
Treating the Cat Bite
It’s very important that you get medical treatment for a cat bite because the length and sharpness of the tooth can force bacteria deep into the skin. If it is a significant bite, you may need to report it depending on your locale’s regulations. Be sure to clean the wound very well and treat it with over the counter antibiotics. The wound may appear to heal on the surface, but if you have any pain or tenderness under the site of the bite, or there is redness and swelling, seek immediate medical attention as a blood infection is very difficult to get a handle on once it is established.
Cats are great companions for anyone who is willing to take the time and initiative to understand their behavior and personalities. The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognizes forty breeds of cat so surely there is a cat for everyone. Be sure, however, to visit your local shelter and save a life. There are plenty of purebred cats waiting for good homes and ready to show lots of love and affection, no matter what breed they are.
Michelle Rivera - Michelle A. Rivera is the author of several books including HOSPICE HOUNDS, Animals and Healing at the Borders of Death; CANINES IN THE ...
