cat attack

[stac0823]

my cat seems to be very happy and playful when he goes on the attack of my hand. we have developed a gam (a very rough game) of my hand hovering in the air and he goes in to stalka dn attack mode. is this replicating of a stalk or hunting techniniqu or is he just having fun attacking me?

[FP]

Hi, Yes you are right, it's a throwback to his wild ancesters. However he will be having lots of run doing it and you will develop lots of little scratches and scabs as a permanent accessory. He sounds like a very healthy, happy cat. I have three cats, so you can imagine what my hats (and feet) look like. Wouldn't change them for the world though.

[Lindy Loo]

Fakeplastic...don't you mean 'hands'!! Didn't know hats got scabs!!! Sounds like great fun and yes he's practicing/developing his 'wild side'! See what he does with a fabric 'mouse', my friends kitten has one and it's hilarious watching him 'go for the kill'!!

[FP]

Well spotted Lindy! Yes I meant hands. Don't even possess a hat.

[becks]

Hello, I just wanted to say my cats does this too, we used to play that game and still do when i can bear it! If she just bites or scratches when you're just stroking him it may be that he's had enough of being stroked, or thinks you want to play the game.

[New Forester]

It is both -- play is a way of practising real hunting techniques in a safe environment, while also establishing social relationships. Virginia McKenna was on the radio yesterday describing how one of the "Born Free" lions did the same to her -- and broke her ankle... Playing domestic cats often show the "buffalo-kill" pounce (somersaulting over the head of the "prey" from behind). Most of course will never use this for real, and may not have done so for generations.