Play aggression is common in cats, particularly young males, and can cause injury to owners and distress to the cat when mishandled.
Play aggression reflects a normal behavioural need that has been misdirected. Cats who lack appropriate outlets for predatory play behaviour may become frustrated and over-aroused. Punishment-based responses worsen the problem by increasing arousal and damaging the human-cat bond. Consistent use of toys rather than hands, combined with interactive play sessions, resolves most play aggression problems.