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How to train a biting, scratching kitten without a spray bottle?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I'm in need a new method of training my kitten. Spray bottle won't work a bit. He's a wild one, always biting and scratching

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 13th, 2016

Kittens can be challenging to manage when they're young! Scratching and biting at this age is normal play behavior, so it's up to us to be patient and provide lots of appropriate outlets for this behavior. Make sure that your kitten has a variety of different toys to play with - things like fishing-pole type toys to chase and pounce on, large plush toys to grab and kick, and smaller toys for chasing and batting around. If he tries to bite or scratch, just redirect him to one of his toys and use that to play with him instead. If you're petting him and he bites or scratches your hands, calmly stop petting and ignore him until he calms down. You may only be able to pet him when he's calm and sleepy at this age, which is okay - he will become calmer as he gets older. I don't normally recommend a spray bottle for training cats or kittens, as it often increases their frustration and isn't very effective at stopping problem behaviors. Instead, try redirecting him to something else. If there are specific behaviors that you are trying to stop or change, feel free to post again with more details - we would be happy to provide more specific suggestions if possible.

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