Your cat bites your head because it is expressing its affection and possessiveness. However, it could also be that it is bored, stressed or even sick including pica. Knowing why your cat does this is important and can help you to take the right action.
Why does my cat bite my head?
Cats can be adorable but they have peculiar behaviors some of which are not very pleasant to us humans. Biting your head can be worrisome so it is important to know why your cat bites your head.
Showing Affection and possessiveness
Cats lick and nibble at each other when they groom as a way to bond and show affection. This type of mutual grooming is known as allogrooming. Typically, it occurs when a cat grooms another kitty on the head and neck. Mutual grooming helps cats relieve stress and create a communal scent with other felines. Because your cat views you as part of its social circle, it may do the same to you.
The cats likes the taste of your hair
Some hair products may have an appealing taste for cats. If you have recently used a new hair product that has attracted the attention of your cat, you may want to change to another scent or an unscented type. Cats do not like citrus scents so you may choose orange, lemon or grapefruit if your cat’s behavior annoys you.
Stress or boredom
Biting your head can be a result of fear or stress for cats. Some believe it can be related to a self-soothing behavior in times of stress. Doing this behavior can be its way of being reassured of the bond you share, which in turn helps soothe its anxiety.
There are many causes of cat stress. Usually, a change in the environment is the top on the list. Vet visits also frightens them. They may also react adversely when there is a new family member.
Pica
Some cats like to eat nonfood items such as hair or fabrics because they suffer from a condition known as Pica. Pica can be caused by a nutritional deficiency or even a medical problem such as diabetes or feline leukemia. In some cases, early weaning may lead to pica later in life.
How to discourage your cat from biting your head?
If you feel discomfort with the cat’s bite, you can take the following to stop your cat from biting your head:
Step away when your cat tries to bite your head.
This is to communicate to your cat that its behavior is unpleasant for you. If you stay in the same place while it bites your head, the cat may interpret that it’s behavior is fine for you. You have to be consistent in discouraging the cat’s behavior. When you respond inconsistently it may confuse your cat.
It may not change right away but later on, with consistency, the cat will learn that biting your head is not acceptable behavior.
Redirect its attention
Your cat may simply be bored. To provide other options for your cat, you can do the following:
1. Provide your cat with toys it can play with.
Toys can keep your cat from being bored. Keep as much variety as possible in your cat’s daily play routine. They can get bored with old toys but you can use catnip on it to make the cat interested again.
2. Set a playtime with your cat.
Make it a habit to play with your cat for at least 10 minutes a day. You can use a laser or feather wand so you can also integrate exercise while your cat plays.
3. Provide a good scratching post.
With a good scratching post, your cat can destress in the proper area.
Visit the vet.
The biting behavior may become compulsive and hard to stop. When this happens, it is essential to bring your cat to the veterinarian. A vet or pet behaviorist can help address underlying issues in the behavior and provide ways to channel your cat’s urges in appropriate and healthy ways.