Quick question from a first time kitten mom!

What's the best way to teach my 8 week old kitten to "play nice" with me? She's pretty good about it, but sometimes I'll be sitting in the floor with her, playing with one of those cat lure toys, or a toy mouse, and she'll decide to pounce on my knee/toe/whatever she decides to go for close to the floor. Or she'll just decide to try to start chewing/kicking my toes. I've tried the freeze method, I'll stop moving completely but it doesn't really deter her. She doesn't do it with my hands (I've mastered having a little stuffed monkey at the ready to replace my hand if she decides to go for it mid-cuddle session). Also if she's feeling very playful and hyper, she will wrap her paws around my ankle/leg and attempt climbing. Not much fun for me. And the freezing doesn't stop her when she's doing that. Any tips? I want to trim her nails but she's not a big fan of being held for more than 30 seconds so I haven't attempted it yet. I know that will help some. Also, possibly relevant, I've ordered a good sized cat-tree so my little climber can get it out of her system, but it won't be here for another week. Thinking that could help with her wanting to climb my legs? Thanks everyone, you've all be so nice and helpful since I've joined, Lux and I are very grateful!


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When she gets to rough you need to end play sessions. Say ouch loud and then put her to the side. It may take a few times but she will get it. 

You can also substitute a toy the way you are doing when she goes for your hands. You're doing all the right things!

I say ouch or no very firmly and remove myself from the area. Almost every kitten I've had will at some point climb up my leg. I just quietly remove them, place it on the floor. No eye contact, no attention at all. Usually quit in a day or so. [emoji]128513[/emoji] On the other side of that, be sure to give her lots of praise when she's exhibiting good behavior!

Hissing when a kitten misbehaves usually works. They also learn what "ouch!" means pretty fast, but can still become overexuberant.

Yes, hissing and neck scruffing are what mama cat would do! [emoji]128522[/emoji]