Cats have a repfor being mysterious a trait that their people often find appealing.

Those needle-sharp teeth sink into your hand, and the sweet moment is over.

Has your pet suddenly become a furry little hellbeast?

Gray cat biting a hand

If you’re worried about your cat’s biting, it may help to know what’s behind it.

Shojai adds that you’re able to prevent this by taking note of your cat’s biting patterns.

If Fluffster goes for your hand after six strokes, then stop at four or five.

Kitten playing with hand

Many cats also prefer being petted on the head or behind the ears, rather than on the body.

Some cats give gentle “love nips” during petting, but those can escalate to harder bites.

The best way to discourage hard biting is to keep your hand still until Kitty disengages (viaMeowingtons).

Never hit or yell at a cat for biting.

Cats love to play “predator” with anything from theirfellow littermatesto a catnip toy to … you.