i have a cat that bites and swats at me when i pet her what can i do?

Answer 1

We adopted a stray that would do that. We learned that he was okay with neck-up petting, and after he got warmed up, we could go a few inches down, but no more. Ever. Some cats have their own boundaries, and you've gotta deal with them.

That said, sometimes it's possible to change her behavior with rewards. Never punish the kitty physically, because she won't learn that way. When you pet her, give her treats at the same time. Watch for signs of aggravation, such a her ears pulling back, or her tail "wagging". When you see those signs, stop giving her treats and walk away. Don't let it get to the point where she does swat or bite you. Most cats want attention, and by denying that, she may learn to play nice.

Lastly, kitty may just want to play. If she sticks her butt in the air while crouching down or rolls on her back and bites and swats when you pet her belly, try playing with her instead, because that's what she wants.

Good luck with Mrs. Moodypants!

Answer 2

My Cat was a rescue cat and I've experienced the same thing.
Her Vet gave me a few things to try.
1. to hold my hand flat in front of her face and make a loud howling sound much like the sound a cat would make when distressed..
2. to hold her down and make the howling sound.
3. A quick and immediate spritz with a water bottle .
Hope this helps , I know it's frustrating when all you want to do is show them some love.

Answer 3

You know I have a 11 month old kitten that does the same thing and I think he's only playing because he has 3 big cats that he plays with using his claws and we are trying to help him get use to playing with humans and not biting and scratching which so far doesn't work. My 3 older cats know how to play with their claws in. I think Coconut is so use to playing with the big guys he forgets with the human. I'm sure eventually your cat with stop using her claws. Tap them lightly when she scratches you and maybe she will learn eventually.

Answer 4

My cats bite gently and swat at me it means Lets go!! Play time!!! Tag your it!!! Play with her but don'y use your hand as a toy . Get toys to divert her from you hand she will learn toys are much better to play with. When you are done playing and she is tired teach her that hands are for petting.

Answer 5

Don't pet her. Do spent that much time with your cat? If not maybe she isn't used to your presense. Start having days for you and her only. Start feeding her one of th best treats that cats like and start handing her treats for some time and slowly start to touch her a little. Maybe you pet her the wrong way. Maybe you carry a scent that she dosen't like?Wash your hands before toching her.Or talk to her vet.

Answer 6

My cat is 10 and still does that. She doesn't do it to my husband, just me. I have no idea why, but I eventually get pissed and leave her alone. It doesn't seem like she's doing it to be mean, just rough playing but it still hurts and leaves me with scratches. She likes being brushed, so I do that instead of petting her. Good luck!!!

Answer 7

you need to gain its trust. cats are independent animals. rarely a cat will let a stranger come near it. they can also sense your feelings. when you want to pet it, make sure you are clam and happy. don't rush right into petting it. put your hand out to make it smell you. it will walk away or hiss at you, but be patient. over time it will know you are not trying to hurt it.

Answer 8

She is just being cat. That is what they do every time I pet my cat she does that she is just wanting to play.

Answer 9

does kitty have anyody else to play with/ if not, you're it. you'll have to teach her not to play so hard. a polite tap on the nose is usually enough.
if this doesn't work, see about getting her a playmate.

Answer 10

All she is trying to do is tell you dont touch. lol

maybe she has an ochies, has she always done this? she could be trying to tell you she hurts.