When my Siberian cat Alexei licks me I take it as a sign of love. However, when he quickly follows the licking up with a bite I begin to think that he might feel otherwise!
I was heartened to discover that this problem is not unique to Alexei and that many other cat owners have asked why does my cat lick me then bite me?
To express their love
Kittens and sometimes grown-up cats will often lick and nip each other. Their skin is a bit tougher than ours so it most likely doesn’t hurt them.
They are Grooming You to Bond
Cats have keratin spines on their tongue – this is why your cat’s tongue can feel a bit exfoliating. These spines allow your cat to clean itself thoroughly.
It is Overstimulated
Our cats of course can’t tell us to leave them alone so they communicate this through the lick and bite.
They are Playing
If your cat has its whiskers and ears pointing forward, tail up, slightly arched back, and dilated pupils they may well be in the mood to play.
It is stressed
Some cats will start licking non-stop or in a compulsive manner when they are stressed.
What do gentle cat bites mean?
This is most likely a little love bite from your kitty. If your cat is relaxed and happy when biting you gently then this is the most likely explanation.