Nips- are generally love bites. Full on bites usually hurt and could break the skin (particularly dangerous as cat bites and scratches are easily infected.) Cats who are playing together will nip each other. Often this will results in a few cries from the less dominant little monster. My boys played for years like this. Usually Squeek (the less dominant) would end up on his back (belly exposed means "I'm not challenging you!") and cry as Smudge bit him on his belly/ears etc.. Initially I thought this was horrible- how could Smudge treat Squeek (his litter mate!) so (silly human emotions being misplaced on natures best!) Eventually, I began to see that Smudge would bite and they'd wrestle. Squeek would squeak and then when Smudge stopped- he'd bat at him until he started again, or chase him until he did! After that- it was game on! Go to it Smudge. Sadly Squeek left us a year ago last New Year's. Smudge has aged considerably without his best buddy. Enjoy the antics! They speak of fun and frolicking
What wonderful companions cats are. I've never understood how some people think they are aloof or standoffish. None of mine have ever been. I now believe it's a self-fulfilling prophesy. If it's what's you expect, it's likely what you'll get/create. My cats have always behaved much like my dogs. They are trained to do certain things (wait to eat until we say grace, come when called, etc.) Like children- if you expect things of them, they deliver! we all sleep on the bed, it is the cats who are most inclined to sleep closest to me, and wake me up when they want something!
