What does it mean when a cat bites its owner's hand?

A cat biting its owner's hand usually stems from curiosity or the cat treating the hand as a toy to play with. It could also be due to dental discomfort, such as itchy teeth during the teething period or oral disease causing tooth pain. In this case, the cat relieves the discomfort by biting its owner's hand. Since the owner usually uses their hand to feed, water, and clean the cat's litter box, the cat might bite the hand when it has these needs. Additionally, when the cat feels threatened, such as when the owner excessively teases or touches it, the cat may bite the owner's hand in retaliation.

Playful behavior

Cats are curious animals who are interested in everything around them. This innate curiosity prompts them to scratch and bite, and chase moving objects. At the same time, this playful behavior also serves as a way for them to practice their hunting skills.

Therefore, when a cat bites its owner's hand, it might just see the hand as a toy, like its regular catnip toy. Although cats usually don't bite hard, it's still recommended not to indulge them. Voice your disapproval when the cat exhibits this behavior or else it might develop a habit of biting the owner's hand. Sometimes the cat might bite harder, easily injuring the owner.

Teething or oral disease

When cats are 3-4 months old, they begin to teethe. During this time, their teeth will be very itchy, and they will need to relieve the discomfort through biting. Therefore, the cat might bite its owner's hand or chew on items like sofas and chairs. Owners can buy some teeth-grinding snacks for their cats and gradually correct their biting habits.

另外，主人还要观察猫咪的口腔有没有异常，比如牙龈红肿、流口水、长红色溃疡等，因为口腔不适也可能会导致猫咪一直咬东西，需要立即到医院检查治疗。

Expression of physiological needs such as eating and drinking

When a cat bites its owner's hand, it might be because it's hungry. Since the owner usually places food in their hand, the cat might think that the hand represents food. Owners can put some food and clean water for the cat to see if it has this need. If the cat has just used the toilet, it might be reminding the owner to clean its litter box.

Defensive behavior due to threats

When a cat feels threatened, it will exhibit aggressive behavior. The owner, in an attempt to defend themselves, will usually reach out with their hand, and the cat will naturally bite the hand. At this time, the cat's bite is usually quite fierce, and the owner's hand may be bitten and bleed. Therefore, it's recommended for owners not to excessively tease the cat or disturb it when it's resting, otherwise, the cat will really get angry and bite.