There are a variety of reasons why cats might chew on fingers. It could be that they're teething and their gums are sore, or they might be trying to get attention. Cats may also chew on fingers out of boredom or frustration. In some cases, it could be a sign of anxiety or stress.
Whatever the reason, it's important to deter your cat from chewing on fingers. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. Your cat could break a tooth, or worse, puncture your skin and cause an infection.
Here are some tips to stop your cat from chewing on fingers:
- Give them something else to chew on, like a toy or a piece of rawhide.
- discourage them from chewing on your fingers by swatting at them or saying "no."
- Try to figure out what's causing the behavior and address the underlying issue. For instance, if your cat is bored, give them more toys and playtime.
- If your cat is stressed or anxious, talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions, such as pheromone therapy.
Does chewing on fingers help relieve stress for cats?
Yes, chewing on fingers help relieve stress for cats. When cats are stressed, they tend to chew on their fur or on their claws. This releases endorphins in their brain which help them feel better. Chewing on fingers is a way for them to self-soothe and calm down.
What are some of the dangers of allowing cats to chew on fingers?
Cats love to chew on fingers, but there are some dangers associated with it. One danger is that the cat could accidentally bite a finger off. Another danger is that the cat could transfer bacteria from its mouth to the person's hand, which could lead to an infection. Finally, if the person has a cut or open wound on their hand, the cat's saliva could exacerbate the problem and lead to an infection.
Is there a way to redirect my cat's chewing behavior?
Most cats love to chew on things, whether it’s your favorite pair of shoes or a quickly-moving toy. While it can be frustrating when your cat’s chewing habits turn destructive, there are ways to redirect their behavior.
First, consider your cat’s age and health. Kittens and young cats typically chew more than older cats because they’re still teething. If your cat is an adult, they may be chewing out of boredom or stress. Furthermore, some health conditions, like feline dental disease, can cause cats to chew more.
If your cat is chewing due to teething or boredom, provide them with plenty of chew toys. Chew toys made specifically for cats are often filled with catnip, which can help entice your cat to chew on them instead of your belongings. You can also try giving your cat a rawhide bone or a toy filled with catnip.
If your cat is stressed, try to identify the source of their stress and remove it if possible. If you can’t remove the source of stress, consider talking to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication.
Finally, make sure your cat has regular access to a scratching post or other vertical surface. Scratching is a natural feline behavior, and cats often chew on things as a way to relieve stress. By giving your cat a designated place to scratch, you may be able to reduce their chewing behavior.
With a little patience and effort, you can redirect your cat’s chewing behavior and keep them (and your belongings) safe.
What are some other things I can do to keep my cat from chewing on my fingers?
There are several things you can do to keep your cat from chewing on your fingers. One is to keep your nails trimmed short so they don't provide as much of an enticing target. You can also try using a bitter-tasting nail polish or spray on your nails to deter your cat. Some people find that wearing gloves when around their cat helps, too. Additionally, providing your cat with lots of toys and scratch posts to help keep their teeth and claws healthy and sharp can help dissuade them from chewing on your fingers. Finally, if your cat is teething, providing them with a wet towel or piece of ice to chew on can help soothe their gums and hopefully take the focus off your fingers.
What are some signs that my cat is not enjoying chewing on my fingers?
There are a few signs that your cat may not enjoy chewing on your fingers. If your cat starts to avoidance or aggression when you offer your fingers, or if they begin to make less contact with you during attempts to chew on your fingers, these may be signs that your cat is not enjoying the activity. Additionally, if your cat starts to drool excessively, paw at their mouth, or seems to be in pain while chewing on your fingers, they may be trying to communicate to you that they do not enjoy this behavior. If your cat displays any of these signs, it is best to discontinue offering your fingers for chewing and to consult with your veterinarian to explore other possible causes of your cat's discomfort.
What should I do if my cat starts to bleed from chewing on my fingers?
If your cat starts to bleed from chewing on your fingers, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. If the bleeding is not severe, you may be able to stop it by applying pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. If the bleeding is severe, you should take your cat to the emergency vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my cat Chew my fingers?
Here are some possible reasons for your cat to chew on your fingers:
What are the best chews for cats and dogs with anxiety?
The VetriScience Composure Pro Bite-Size Chews are a great option for cats and dogs with anxiety. They offer behavioral, cognitive, and brain support, while also reducing anxiety in nervous pets.
Can petting your cat reduce your stress levels?
According to Chelsea Hudson, a therapist at Cityscape Counseling in Chicago, petting your cat can reduce your stress levels so much that it might even protect you from long-term health issues like heart disease. Plus, according to Chelsea Hudson, a therapist at Cityscape Counseling in Chicago, petting your cat doesn't just biologically calm your nervous system. "The downside is that [petting] may not work if the person has an anxiety disorder," she says. But for those of us who simply enjoy the warm feeling of our feline friend's body against ours, there's good news: Even a brief pat can help ward off cortisol spikes and other negative physical effects of stress.
How do I get my Cat to stop chewing on things?
If your cat is constantly chewing on things or has developed a habit of getting into trouble by chewing on cords and other objects, it may be helpful to consult a veterinarian. Chronic chewing can indicate problems with neurological development or dental hygiene. If your cat is teething, chew products may help alleviate the symptom. Some preparations of brewers yeast (usually as part of premixed oral wellness formulas) have also been found to support oral health in cats when given in small Pendulum Chews ™ pieces.
How do I Stop my Cat from gnawing on my fingers?
If your cat is biting at your fingers when you offer treats by hand, stop feeding her by hand altogether, and feed only from her bowl. Reward her with a meal if she stops biting.
