Scratching & Biting Support

Understanding natural kitten behaviors and managing them without scolding.

Siberian Cat | Fuluck Cattery, Osaka

3 min read | Text updated: February 2026

Basic Approach

Offering a suitable scratching surface (AI illustration)
Offering a suitable scratching surfaceAI illustration

Scratching is nail care and stretching; play-biting is play and dental growth. Don't try to "stop" these — redirect to appropriate places/methods. Praise with alternatives rather than scolding, and good habits form naturally.

Scratching Solutions

AI illustration of a kitten using a stable scratcher beside a protected sofa
Give scratching a suitable placeAI illustration
  • Set up 2-3 scratching posts — Near pathways, sleeping areas, windows.
  • Try different materials — Sisal rope, cardboard, carpet, wood. Preferences vary by cat.
  • Offer vertical, horizontal, and angled options — Match their stretching posture.
  • Quietly praise when they use it — Gentle voice and treats reinforce good habits.
  • If they start on furniture, gently redirect — No loud voice, just guide them to the scratching post.
Siberians are large, so a sturdy, stable scratching post is recommended.

Play-Biting Solutions

Offering a kicker toy instead of hands (AI illustration)
Offering a kicker toy instead of handsAI illustration
  • Don't use hands as toys — Always use toys from kittenhood.
  • Stop play when they bite — Walk away quietly for 2-3 min, resume when calm.
  • 10-15 min daily playtime — Split into morning/evening for best energy release.
  • Provide chew-OK toys — Kicker toys and chewy toys as alternatives.
  • Take a break before overexcitement — If ears flatten back, time for a cool-down.
Play-biting peaks during teeth transition (3-6 months). A chilled wet towel or teething toy helps. This naturally calms with growth, so be patient.

What to Avoid

Pausing play when excitement builds (AI illustration)
Pausing play when excitement buildsAI illustration
Yelling, hitting, or spraying water (creates fear and breaks trust)
Forcefully restraining (can increase excitement or aggression)
Prolonged scolding (cats can't understand the reason through words; it only confuses them)
Expecting instant results (habit improvement takes about 2-4 weeks)