When cats feel comfortable in each other’s company, they groom each other. But sometimes, they get aggressive and start biting each other. It forces you to think about why do cats bite each other’s ears. As you know, cats have their ways to do and communicate things. But, biting the other cat’s ears is also another strange behavior. So, if your cat is also doing this and you want to know the reasons, then you’re at the right place.
5 Reasons Why Do Cats Bite Each Other’s Ears?
So, let’s have a look at the most important reasons why do cats show this behavior?
- Play Behavior
Kittens mostly do this to overcome their hunting and aggressive behavior. Kittens will bite, claw, and jump on other objects. By doing this, they learn communication skills that help them when they get adults. So, during play fighting sessions, they bite each other’s ears.
Most cats outgrow this behavior, but some will not. If your cats are not aggressive, these bites are play bites, and there is no need to worry about them.
- Showing Dominance
When you bring a new cat home, your existing cat will start biting others’ cat ears to show dominance. Cats do this when they try to claim their territory. Other cats’ ears are an easy target for cats, so they target that.
Cats also bite each other’s ears when they know each other well. So, as long as bites are not severe or painful, you can ignore them because it might be a combination of dominance and play.
- Grooming
As mentioned earlier, when cats have a good understanding, they groom each other. But if the other cat starts biting during grooming, it might be due to overstimulation. When cats are petted or groomed for too long, they can easily get overstimulated. So, when one cat grooms the other, it results in overstimulation, and cats bite the other cat’s neck to tell that it’s enough.
- Hunting Instinct
Another reason why do cats bite each other’s ears is for hunting purposes. When cats attack their prey, they tend to go for the neck and ears. So, these hunting instincts are inborn, and you can’t do much about that.
Younger cats show this behavior because it’s part of their learning. So, if cats bite each other’s ears without causing any damage, let them satisfy their hunting instinct.
- Medical Issues
It’s the last reason why do cats bite each other’s ears, but it’s the most serious reason, and it should be fixed immediately. When you see sudden behavior change in cats, they become aggressive; it might be due to medical problems. Moreover, when a cat is in discomfort, it will bite other cats due to aggression.
So, if you’re witnessing any medical issues in your cat that are leading to aggressive behavior, then set an appointment with your vet and get them fixed as soon as possible.
Final Words
Sometimes cats bite each other’s ears might be due to playing or showing dominance. But if you feel that they’re doing this due to medical issues, get them fixed as soon as possible. Before taking any action, ensure that you understand the reasons why do cats bite each other’s ears.
