If your cat often plays with your hair, licking it or even biting it, you’ve probably wondered: Why does my cat bite my hair? Does it like the taste? Is it trying to hurt me? Should I be worried? Find out the reasons and learn how to deal with this behavior.
Why does my cat bite my hair?
When you ask yourself why your cat bites your hair, the first thing to remember is that cats are clean animals that constantly groom themselves. To remove dirt, they lick their fur with their rough tongue and if they find something stuck, they use their teeth to nibble it off. So, when your cat bites your hair, it’s because it’s sharing this grooming ritual with you. Therefore, you shouldn’t worry, since in this case the bites are not a sign of aggressive behavior. Below, we explain in more detail some of the reasons why your cat licks or bites your hair.
Sense of belonging
You’ve probably noticed that sometimes cats groom each other for long periods of time. So, this behavior is not only about cleanliness but is also a sign of inclusion and belonging. If your cat licks or bites your hair, it’s because it’s sharing its scent with you and recognizing you as part of its group.
Sign of affection
Keep in mind that cats don’t lick people or other animals unless they are very fond of them. Therefore, when your cat licks or nibbles your hair, it’s doing it affectionately to reciprocate all your care and cuddles. This behavior is not aggressive at all, but rather the opposite.
Playfulness
Cats may also give small bites to your hair when they are bored and want to play. It’s simply a way to get your attention. In fact, you’ve probably noticed that your pet behaves the same way with cats it considers companions.
What should I do?
If you don’t mind your cat licking or nibbling your hair, you don’t need to do anything. However, if it bothers you, follow these recommendations and you’ll see how your pet soon stops this behavior.
- Don’t reward it. Don’t pet or talk to your cat when it starts licking or biting you. If you do, your furry friend will associate this behavior with something positive and pleasant, making it more likely to repeat it.
- Walk away. As soon as you notice your cat starting to lick you, move away and create distance. Moving away when something is unpleasant is a common feline reaction, so your cat will easily understand the message you’re sending.
- Offer a distraction. You can also suggest a game to satisfy its need for fun.
- Don’t punish it. It’s important not to get angry with your cat. Don’t shout at it or push it away roughly.
Compulsive behavior
Now you know that the answer to why your cat bites your hair is neither negative nor alarming. However, keep in mind that if your cat is nervous or stressed, it may lick or bite its fur compulsively. For the same reason, it might end up licking or biting your hair incessantly when close to you. If you notice this type of behavior, you should visit your veterinarian to determine the cause of the problem and get full support.
Additionally, to promote your cat’s inner calm, we recommend the range of veterinary food for cats with stress or anxiety issues from TrovetPlus. You’ll find scientifically formulated foods and supplements to help your pet stay relaxed.
