Anyone who has ever had a cat understands their wonderfully quirky behavior, including the occasional surprising bite. If your cat bites you, it could be due to several reasons: playfulness, where gentle nips occur during overstimulating play; affection, where soft bites are a way of showing love; or overstimulation, signaling that the cat needs space after too much petting.

Cats might also bite out of fear or stress as a defense mechanism, or if they are experiencing pain or discomfort, which could indicate a health issue requiring a vet’s attention. Territorial behavior is another reason, with cats biting to assert dominance or protect their space. Young cats and kittens often engage in rough play that includes biting, which can become problematic if not redirected to appropriate toys. When treating a cat bite, it’s important to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage to prevent infection and complications.