Although it may seem odd when the cat bite or pull on its claws, in reality, this habit should not concern you as it is common among some cats. Anxiety, stress, or simply relaxation can be some of the reasons behind this behavior.
This behavior of biting or pulling on its claws has several explanations, even though some cats pull on their claws so hard that it seems painful for us owners to witness this seemingly strange behavior.
Why Does the Cat Bite or Pull on Its Claws
This claw biting is a behavior commonly observed in household and apartment cats. You shouldn’t panic if your cat develops such a habit, but you should identify the reason behind its claw pulling if this behavior becomes frequent.
The cat’s claws are frequently trimmed
To protect the furniture in the house, it is recommended to trim the tips of the cat’s claws. This practice may not necessarily be pleasing to the cat, which, even if domesticated, has retained its predator instinct.
If you have the habit of trimming your cat’s claws, then it’s time to do it again. A cat whose claws have been trimmed may feel uncomfortable as they grow. Hence, it begins to pull on its claws forcefully, sometimes seemingly hurting itself, although it doesn’t actually hurt the cat at all, despite the rather brutal way it does it.
Anxiety and stress can be reasons why the cat bites its claws
When the cat bite or pull on its claws, anxiety and stress can often be contributing factors. For some cats, excessive claw pulling with their teeth serves as a form of exercise or relaxation, aiding them in alleviating stress and promoting a sense of well-being.
In cats that have never had their claws trimmed, this behavior is not normal. The cat starts pulling on its claws due to stress and anxiety. It is the same habit that humans have when they are stressed and bite their nails.
You need to pay more attention to the cat, try to identify and eliminate stress factors. Additionally, you can offer activities to consume energy. A sisal on which to pull claws is also beneficial.
Stretching and maintaining claws ready for attack
Cats are not the only felines that bite and pull on their claws. This habit can also be observed in other larger felines.
Researchers believe that by biting their claws, cats aim to keep them sharp for hunting and defense. Pulling on claws with teeth can help remove the outer layer of the claw, exposing the sharp claw underneath.
Related: How to Train Your Cat to Stop Scratching the Couch and Furniture
In summary, recognizing the reasons behind why cat bite or pull on its claws is essential for managing their behavior and ensuring their comfort and happiness within our households.
