Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello,

I have an F2 Chausie. He is beautiful!!! He is very active, and has a beautiful black coat with golden eyes. He is about 9 months old and recently when I am petting him, when he is relaxed sometimes he gently bites my finger or arm. It doesn't hurt, but he when he bites he clenches down softly and wont let go unless I tell him "no" in a low voice and then he will release.

QUESTION: why is he doing this?
QUESTION: is this a sign I should be worried about?

It is probably a sign of some sort of stimulation when he's being petted. Watch his ears and see if he turns them backwards before he bites. If this is the case, then you should stop petting him as soon as the ears turn.

You should probably be a bit concerned because the gentle bite might turn into a more painful bite. Try yelling "Ouch!" in a high pitched voice when he bites and see if he backs off.

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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

AND WHY DO THEY BITE?, I KNOW SOME CATS THAT DON'T BITE EVEN IF YOU PLAY ROUGH WITH THEM!!!! Is there any "technique" so they stop bitting? or something that I shouldn't do to stop this behavior.

Some cats are more aggressive than others. Do not ever tease or attempt to play with a cat using your hands. When the cat does bite, say "Ouch" very loudly and in a high voice. This mimics the sound a kitten makes when it has had enough and cries "uncle". Most cats will back off, especially if it is play aggression. A feathered cat tease is a good toy for an aggressive cat and will help dispell a lot of the biting.
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

Muchas gracias.
Thank you so much.