Accepted Answer

Hi again, and thanks for your additional and helpful information.

You read my mind! : ) I was thinking that if he was found outside, his mother was most likely feral, and although he was with her for only 4 days, it might still have been 'imprinted' upon him.

Your description of him getting under your chin, licking your neck and purring away, at 4AM, does show that he can be very affectionate. He may have a fascination for your arms because they are usually accessible, and I agree that he may be doing this as a 'game', indicating he wants to play and/or just to get a rise out of you. Sometimes, cats feel that negative attention is just as welcome as attention for doing good things. However, you mentioned he doesn't like being petted, and some cats are just born like this. Although we would love it, not all cats are lap cats and many just don't like to be touched, picked up or petted much, or at all. I've owned both types of cats: lovebugs and more 'aloof' kitties, who would give a little affection only on 'their' terms.

So far, you are doing everything right! Leaving the room when he jumps up and bites your arms is the best thing you can do, to try to modify this unwanted behavior. When you leave the room, stay away (don't let him see you or have access to you) for about 3 minutes; then, go back into the room where you were. If he exhibits this biting again, repeat your actions, leave the room, and stay out for 5 minutes, then return. If you are consistent with this, he will learn that he prefers the pleasure of your company and begin to associate losing your company when he exhibts this unacceptable behavior.

I would also recommend that you try to keep your arms covered, so he has no access to your skin, when he jumps up to bite. He will be very surprised when he encounters a 'material' and no skin. You also need to protect yourself, in any case, from his bites.

Make sure to reward all positive behavior and give him cat-healthy treats, when he plays nicely and doesn't jump up and bite. Also, when he jumps up, say firmly 'No bite!', before you get up and walk away. Don't yell, don't startle him, just say it firmly and then leave. Interest him in playing with toys that are 'interactive', like a laser pointer, and throw toys for him to chase. Make sure to never use your hands/fingers as toys.

If he doesn't like petting, I don't know how he feels about brushing/combing, but if he does like this, try to do it at least once a day, as it is a great bonding experience for the two of you. If he doesn't like to be groomed, don't even try it.

He's still a kitten and he'll most likely begin to 'mellow' as he gets older, but for now, try some of these suggestions, and I hope things improve.

Cher

Expert:	Jessesmom
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	11/2/2009

Feline Specialist Health/Behavior

Feline Healthcare and Behavior Specialist 40+ years Experience