Last Updated on May 4, 2025 by Cat Mad
Kittens bite due to play, teething, or overstimulation. To stop it, redirect them to toys, avoid using hands as playthings, reward calm behaviour, and stay consistent. With the right guidance, most kittens outgrow biting by 6–12 months.
In This Article:
Why Do Kittens Bite?
Biting is a normal part of kitten development. Young cats learn to hunt, play, and explore their environment through their mouths. While it may seem aggressive, most biting is instinctive, not malicious.
Common reasons kittens bite:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Play Behaviour | Mimics hunting skills; common in active kittens under 6 months. |
| Teething | Sore gums can lead to chewing and nipping during 3–6 months of age. |
| Overstimulation | Some kittens bite if petting or play becomes too intense. |
| Lack of Social Learning | Orphaned or early-weaned kittens may not learn bite inhibition properly. |
🐾 How to Stop a Kitten from Biting – Step-by-Step
✅ 1. Always Use Toys, Not Hands
Avoid using fingers, feet, or clothing during play. Wand toys, feather teasers, and balls help kittens burn energy safely.
✅ 2. Redirect Immediately
If your kitten bites, stop play, say “No” firmly but calmly, and offer a chew toy instead. Consistency teaches what is, and isn’t, okay to bite.
✅ 3. Reward Gentle Play
Praise and treat your kitten when they play nicely without biting. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce good behaviour quickly.
✅ 4. Provide Teething Relief
Chew toys, rubber kitten-safe teethers, and even chilled flannels can soothe sore gums.
✅ 5. Limit Rough Play
Avoid roughhousing. Wrestling with hands teaches your kitten that biting skin is part of the game.
✅ 6. Schedule Calm Breaks
Play in short sessions (5–10 mins) and allow rest between. Overstimulated kittens are more likely to bite.
When Will My Kitten Stop Biting?
Most kittens reduce biting as they reach 6–12 months, especially when trained early. However, some cats retain mouthy behaviour longer, especially if not corrected during kittenhood.
When to See a Vet or Behaviourist
If your kitten’s biting:
- Is aggressive or fearful, not playful
- Happens during calm periods, not play
- Is frequent and intense, despite training
…it’s worth consulting a vet to rule out pain or a qualified feline behaviourist to assess emotional causes. Biting linked to anxiety, trauma, or pain needs tailored support.
👉 Find UK-certified help at apbc.org.uk
Final Thoughts
Stopping a kitten from biting requires patience, redirection, and understanding. It’s not about punishment, it’s about teaching boundaries. With consistency, your kitten will learn to play gently and become a well-mannered companion.
FAQs
Should I tap my kitten’s nose if it bites?
No. Physical correction can cause fear or aggression. Instead, redirect and reward calm behaviour.
Do kittens grow out of biting?
Yes, if trained. Most kittens reduce biting naturally by 6–12 months with consistent guidance.
Can teething cause biting?
Absolutely. Teething peaks between 3–6 months, and chew toys can help reduce biting linked to gum discomfort.
