why do cats bite other cats necks

Penelope

I’ve noticed that my cats often bite each other’s necks during play or even seemingly out of nowhere. At first, I thought it was aggression, but they don’t seem hurt or upset afterward. Why do cats do this? Is it a sign of dominance, playfulness, or something else?

Delilah

Cats biting each other’s necks is a common behavior with multiple explanations. One primary reason is play behavior—kittens often practice hunting and fighting by play-biting, and this can carry into adulthood. Another reason is dominance or mating behavior; male cats may bite a female’s neck during mating to hold her still. However, if your cats aren’t showing signs of distress, it’s likely just playful interaction or a way to establish social hierarchy without real aggression.

Penelope

Delilah That makes sense, but what if one cat seems to do it more often than the other? Could it mean one is trying to assert dominance, or is it just a personality difference?