Many cat owners experience their feline friends getting overly excited during playtime, leading to scratching and biting. While this behavior is natural, it’s important to teach your cat how to play gently to avoid injuries.
In this guide, we’ll explore why cats scratch during play and how to train them to be more gentle.
Why Do Cats Scratch During Play?
Cats may use their claws during play for several reasons:
✔ Instinctive Hunting Behavior – Cats naturally pounce and scratch like they would in the wild.
✔ Overexcitement – Fast movements and rough play can trigger strong reactions.
✔ Lack of Socialization – Cats that weren’t trained as kittens may not know their strength.
✔ Redirected Energy – If they’re bored, they may release excess energy through rough play.
Now, let’s go over how to train them to play more gently.
Step 1: Use Toys Instead of Hands
Never use your hands as a toy during playtime.
✔ Always use wand toys, balls, or stuffed toys instead of fingers.
✔ If they try to grab or bite your hand, immediately stop the game.
✔ Redirect their attention to an appropriate toy before they get too excited.
✔ Hands should be for petting, not for rough play.
Step 2: Stop Play Immediately When They Scratch
Your cat needs to learn that scratching ends the fun.
✔ If they scratch or bite, say “Ouch!” in a firm but calm voice.
✔ Stop playing and walk away for a few minutes.
✔ Resume play only when they’ve calmed down.
✔ This teaches them that gentle play keeps the game going.
Step 3: Reward Gentle Play
Encourage good behavior with positive reinforcement.
✔ Give them treats or praise when they play without scratching.
✔ If they use their claws too much, redirect them to a scratching post.
✔ Reward soft pawing and non-aggressive play with extra playtime.
✔ Positive reinforcement strengthens gentle habits.
Step 4: Trim Their Claws Regularly
Keeping their claws short minimizes accidental scratches.
✔ Use cat nail clippers to trim claws every 2-3 weeks.
✔ If your cat resists, introduce nail trimming gradually and gently.
✔ Avoid cutting too close to the quick (the pink part of the nail).
✔ Shorter claws make playtime safer.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Encouraging Rough Play as a Kitten
❌ Mistake: Letting kittens bite and scratch during play.
✅ Solution: Teach gentle play from a young age.
2. Reacting Aggressively
❌ Mistake: Yelling or hitting them for scratching.
✅ Solution: Stay calm and stop play instead.
3. Not Providing Enough Toys
❌ Mistake: Expecting them to play gently without alternatives.
✅ Solution: Keep a variety of toys available.
When to Seek Professional Help
If scratching continues despite training, consult a:
✔ Veterinarian – To check for stress-related behaviors.
✔ Feline Behaviorist – For specialized training techniques.
Conclusion
Training your cat to play gently requires patience and consistency. By using toys instead of hands, stopping play when they scratch, and rewarding gentle behavior, you can teach them to engage without using their claws aggressively.
With structured training, playtime will be safe and fun for both you and your cat!