Cat Behavior: Scratching, Biting, and Hiding

Does your feline pal sometimes cop a bit of cattitude? Cats may be mysterious creatures, but their behavior always communicates something. At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, your veterinary clinic in Plano, TX, we often hear from owners puzzled by their pets’ scratching, biting, or hiding. While some of these behaviors can be perfectly normal, sometimes they may signal stress or medical issues. Understanding cat behavior helps you build a stronger bond with your feline companion while keeping your home peaceful.

Why Cats Scratch

Scratching is instinctive. It helps your feline pal sharpen her claws, mark her territory, and stretch her muscles. But when Fluffy uses your furniture as a scratching post, it can become frustrating. Solutions include:

• Providing sturdy scratching posts or pads
  
• Experimenting with vertical vs. horizontal scratchers
  
• Using deterrent sprays on furniture
  
• Rewarding your kitty for appropriate scratching
  

Our Plano veterinary team can recommend feline anxiety treatment strategies if scratching stems from stress rather than instinct.

Understanding Cat Biting

Cats bite for several reasons: play, fear, overstimulation, or even pain. Gentle kittens often nip during play, but adult cats may bite to assert boundaries. 

What do you do? Here are a few tips:

• Learn to recognize warning signs like tail flicking or flattened ears.
  
• Redirect play biting with toys, not hands. (Click here to read our blog about kitty enrichment.)
  
• Avoid punishment, which can increase fear.
  
• Schedule a veterinary exam to rule out pain-related aggression.
  

Stress relief for cats is often part of solving biting problems, especially when anxiety is the trigger.

Why Cats Hide

Cats hide for comfort and safety. Hiding becomes concerning when it’s excessive or sudden. Common reasons include:

• Stress or anxiety from household changes
  
• Illness or injury
  
• Fear of new people or pets
  

Of course, some cats just like finding nooks and crannies to nap in. Pay attention to your pet’s normal behavior. If your pet is usually outgoing but suddenly starts hiding, there may be something going on. Creating safe hiding spaces helps your feline pal feel secure. But if hiding is constant, sudden, or just out of character, contact your veterinarian.

Fun Facts About Cat Behavior

• Cats have scent glands in their paws, so scratching doubles as communication.
  
• “Love bites” are a form of affection, though they should stay gentle.
  
• Hiding boxes reduce stress for cats in shelters and homes alike.
  
• Some cats scratch right after waking up as a stretching ritual.

Chewy did an article on why cats scratch, which you can read here. Humane World for animals also has a post on scratching in kitties. Click here for that one.

FAQ About Cat Behavior

Is scratching always bad behavior?

No, it’s natural. Sometimes cats just play by, well, attacking us. Providing alternatives like scratching posts redirects that killer kitty instinct.

Why does my cat bite when I pet them?

It may be a sign of overstimulation. Pay attention to body language cues.

Should I punish my cat for biting?

No. Punishment can worsen fear and aggression. Positive reinforcement is more effective.

Why is my cat hiding more than usual?

Sudden hiding can indicate illness or stress. Veterinary evaluation is recommended.

Can behavior problems be treated?

Yes, with patience, enrichment, and veterinary support, many behavior issues improve.

Visit Our Plano, TX Veterinarians for Behavior Help

Scratching, biting, and hiding are normal feline behaviors — until they become disruptive. At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, our veterinarians in Plano, TX provide guidance on stress relief for cats and effective behavior solutions. If you’ve been searching for a vet near me to help decode your kitty’s quirks, we’re here for you. Call today to schedule an appointment and let us support your feline pal’s emotional and physical health.

Visit our Services page here to learn more about our Plano, TX vet clinic and the services we offer. 

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for accurate medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your cat.