Why is My Kitten Suddenly Hyperactive, Running Around and Biting? Is it Rabies?

Kitten hyperactivity, characterized by sudden bursts of running and biting, is often due to teething discomfort or excess energy, serving as a way to release pent-up feelings. It's crucial to understand that this behavior is generally not indicative of rabies. Rabid cats typically exhibit symptoms such as photophobia (sensitivity to light) and excessive salivation.

1. Teething Discomfort:

The teething phase in kittens can last for several weeks. During this period, kittens may shed their baby teeth, which are sometimes spat out and sometimes swallowed. Rest assured, if a kitten swallows a tooth, it will harmlessly pass through their digestive system. During teething, kittens may exhibit increased biting and scratching behaviors, which can sometimes involve minor bleeding. This is normal. To redirect this behavior, provide your kitten with appropriate chew toys to prevent them from biting your hands and feet. You can also apply a taste that cats dislike to your skin to deter biting.

2. Excess Energy:

A high-energy kitten will often display seemingly odd behaviors, such as zooming around the house, exploring every nook and cranny. A common scenario is a kitten transitioning from sleep to a sudden burst of frantic running around the house. Kittens may also engage in play that includes interacting with their owners, such as hide-and-seek, playful attacks, and scratching furniture.

It's important to distinguish between typical high-energy play and signs of illness. The excited and seemingly random running is generally not a sign of rabies. Rabies manifests itself primarily through neurological symptoms such as photophobia, hydrophobia (fear of water, though less pronounced in cats), and excessive drooling. Rabies is not common in cats. It primarily affects the central nervous system and is transmitted through saliva.

Remember, a kitten's playful antics are usually a sign of a healthy, active young animal, and understanding the reasons behind the behavior helps ensure a positive and safe environment for your feline friend.You might also like:Pet Breeding