How to Stop Your Cat Scratching or Biting During Play

As every cat owner knows, training a cat differs greatly from training a dog. Cats are independent creatures, often following their own whims rather than commands. This independence is part of their charm, but when your cat displays unwelcome behaviours like scratching or biting during play, it’s natural to want to address them calmly and effectively.

Cats are intelligent and can learn from their experiences. While they may not be "trained" in a traditional sense, you can manage and reduce play biting or scratching by guiding their behaviour thoughtfully over time. Here are nine expert tips to help you achieve gentle play and a harmonious relationship.

1. Use Appropriate Toys, Not Hands

Always use interactive toys such as wand toys, feather sticks, or balls instead of your hands or feet during play sessions. This helps your cat learn that toys are for biting and clawing, not your body parts. Avoid using gloves with dangling toys or rough wrestling, as these can encourage biting behaviour directed at skin.

2. Redirect Undesired Behaviour Immediately

If your cat starts to bite or scratch, calmly but firmly say "no" and immediately stop the play session. Withdraw your attention for a short time to show that rough play leads to the end of fun. Then redirect your cat to a toy or scratching post to satisfy their natural hunting instincts in a safe way.

3. Encourage Use of Scratching Posts

Provide well-placed, sturdy scratching posts or pads to channel your cat's scratching in appropriate outlets. Praise and reward your cat when they use these to reinforce positive behaviour and protect your furniture and skin.

4. Maintain Consistent Play Routines

Engage your cat in daily interactive play sessions lasting 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day. Regular play helps your cat expend energy healthily and reduces overexcitement that can lead to biting or scratching.

5. Learn to Read Your Cat’s Signals

Understanding your cat's body language is key. Watch for signs of overstimulation or aggression, such as a twitching tail, dilated pupils, flattened ears, hissing, or growling. Recognising these early allows you to pause play before biting or scratching begins.

6. Know When to Cool Down

When your cat becomes overly excited during play, they may forget it's a game. Be ready to calmly end the session and give your cat time to relax. This prevents escalation into aggressive play.

7. Never Use Physical Punishment or Yelling

Respond firmly but calmly without shouting or physical punishment. Yelling or hitting can frighten your cat and damage your bond, potentially worsening behaviour. Maintain patience and consistency in your responses.

8. Supervise Children’s Interactions

Always monitor children playing with your cat to ensure they respect the cat’s space and know appropriate ways to play. Teach children to recognise warning signs and when to stop to avoid provoking biting or scratching.

9. Ensure Your Cat’s Wellbeing

Sometimes biting or scratching can signal stress, pain, or boredom. Ensure your cat is in good health with regular vet check-ups and provide a stimulating environment with toys, climbing spaces, and mental challenges to keep your cat content.

By using these techniques consistently and compassionately, you can help your cat learn safe, gentle play behaviours. This builds trust and makes your interactions more enjoyable for both of you.