Expert: Dear Tabbi - 7/4/2008

Question
Hi There! My boyfriend and I have a new kitten (got her from a cousin whose cat had a litter of just one baby!); he's about 7 weeks old. He is very cute, but constantly biting! He follows us around the house, biting our feet and ankles, and is constantly attacking our hands, even faces. We can't let him in our bedroom at night because we won't get any sleep, and I'd love for him to sleep in the bed. Is this normal playful kitten behaviour? Is there anything we can do? Thanks for your help!
Tara

Answer
Tara,

The kitten is trying to play with you like he would another kitten. And is also trying to get your attention. You might want to get another kitten for her about the same age and temperment (there would be about a 2 week adjustment period). 2 kittens are easier than one because they keep each other company and take the pressure off of you to keep them amused. A Kittens need someone to play rough with besides you. Kittens need a playmate to play rough with, to chase, cuddle with, and to be comfort them when they are left alone.

Never to play rough with him with your hands. It will get more painful as the kitten gets older and a harder habit to break. Only use your hands to pet him. Use a fishing pole type toy, a pet laser light (that shines a little 'red bug' on the floor and walls that cats love to try to catch) that you can get at PetSmart or somewhere similar, a rope to pull, or a stuffed mouse to throw for examples or interactive play.

It would be good to get him a kitty condo to scratch on and run up on. Put it where he can look out the window. Keep his claws trimmed too. Kittens have SHARP claws. Here is a photo link on how to do it:
http://www.cat-world.com.au/catclaws.htm

If he is teething, give him a raw beef rib bone periodically as a treat to chew on. Go to the supermarket and have the butcher cut some beef ribs in half. Though some cats don't care for meat, most cats enjoy them. It satisfies the hunting and 'fresh kill' instinct that is strong in some cats. Plus the fibers in the meat cleans their teeth.

I hope this helps and if you have further questions along the line feel free to ask any time.

Tabbi