My kittens started gently biting me and my bf's hands.?

Question

I have 2 kittens that are currently 5 mo. 3 wks old. Both kittens have been teething for a few weeks now. We provide them with straws to chew on. They also like biting the edges of cardboard boxes. For about two weeks now, they have decided to gently bite our hands. We discourage this by telling them NO and pushing them away. We want to be sure that both the kitties don't confuse play fighting with each other and spending time with us. Is this just a stage of teething that will pass?

Also the first 2 months that we have had them, they have allowed me to check their paws and claws. They also allowed me to trim their claws without struggling at all. I have been trimming every 1-2 weeks. I usually trim their claws while they are grooming themselves. Could it be that they have finally noticed me trimming their claws? Now, they pull their paws away and bite us.

Why the changes?

Answer 1

I also have two young kittens (among other cats), and they do go through stages. I was able to trim their claws at first (which is hard, with almost transparent tiny claws against white fur) but now it is more difficult, as they are so easily distracted. I don't think it has anything to do with them connecting the dots. My best success is when they are almost asleep, provided they have their paws where I can reach them.

As far as biting, you are good to try and discourage that. Sometimes, a very gentle tap on the nose works in addition to saying NO! and pushing them away.

Biting cardboard box edges may not be related to teething. My adult cats also do that. I think teething in animals is different from what we think of as teething.

Answer 2

All they are doing is playing. What you really need to watch out for are the sharp, needle-like claws!

Speaking of claws, I don't know of an older cat who will allow you to even touch their feet. They might also retaliate. (Not to scare you or anything, but they will if you touch them too much.) The vet probably knows the best way to clip their nails without getting clawed in the process. Another alternative is to have their claws removed when they are old enough. (Don't remove claws if you cats go outside though.)

Answer 3

You can buy kitten gloves. They look like jester gloves. That will protect your hands and be able to play with the kittens.
It sounds like normal behavior. I don't think it has to do with you trimming their claws but be careful that you aren't cutting to close. Kittens are very playful so I'm sure they will love those gloves. I've seen them available at pet stores or online. petco or pet smart

Answer 4

I've got a stinker that likes to bite when playing (over 1yr old).

He's very tolerant and will let me trim his claws, but only when he's curled up on the sofa beside me for a nap. He's a little irritated that I woke him up is all. If he's wide awake and alert when I try it... you betcha, he's got better things to do and will make sure to let me know it.

Answer 5

It is a normal reaction, and you're doing everything right.

About trimming their claws/pulling away... did you happen to trim to close one time? Just keep doing what you're doing and they'll get used to it again.

Answer 6

This happens a lot to kittens. the will grow out of it but my cat, who is quite old, still bites my nose while im sleeping sometimes. :-)

Answer 7

theyre just playing with you. as a kitten that is their way of showing you they love you. by teaching them not to your showing authority and at the same time your sorta telling them that you reject their ofer to play. there's nothing wrong with a little gentle playfight but if they get to rought THEN push them away

googd luck

hope i helped

Emily xx

Answer 8

my kittens always do that. My mom doensnt whant them to, but i makes them tought when the fight with eachother at a early stage.