All cat owners have experienced the moment when they are gently petting their cat, and suddenly the cat bites them. While usually this won’t result in you needing to visit the doctor, it may indicate the need for a trip to the veterinarian to discuss this strange behavior. Petting-induced aggression is a common occurrence in cats. Here is some information about petting-induced aggression and what you can do about it. 

What Is Petting-Induced Aggression?

Cats are complex creatures and sometimes act out for no apparent reason. Sometimes a bite is their way of telling you they are done being pet, or you are petting them too roughly. Some cats also don’t like to be pet on certain areas of their bodies like the stomach or feet, and this may be them expressing their discomfort. Petting can also cause a cat to become overly excited or stimulated, causing them to revert to a “feral state” or trigger an arousal-based bite. You can get more advice on how to determine what your cat does and doesn’t like while being pet from your veterinarian.

Are All Cat Bites Aggressive?

The main difference between an aggressive bite and a playful bite is if your cat’s teeth break the skin. Soft bites, sometimes known as love bites, can happen when your cat is licking you, and you suddenly feel teeth. But these bites are meant to be affectionate and may pinch a little but won’t usually draw blood. Pet-induced aggression will often cause your cat’s bite to be much more forceful and may leave you bandaging your hand or arm. If your cat is physically injuring you on a regular basis, it’s best to explain the behavior to your veterinarian and see what you can do to protect yourself and others. 

What Can You Do About Petting-Induced Aggression?

Explain your cat’s behavior to your veterinarian. They will likely explain commonalities between your cat and others, which may help narrow down what is triggering your cat’s behavior. Pay attention to when your cat bites you. If they tend to bite while you are petting their stomach, for example, that spot may be uncomfortable to them, and you should cease petting there. 

If you have been experiencing petting-induced aggression from your kitty, contact Pet Center Ltd. in Columbia, MO. This veterinary clinic has served Boone County and the neighboring regions for more than 30 years and offers services ranging from pet wellness exams and dental care to pet boarding. You can learn more about their services online or call (573) 445-3000 to schedule an appointment.