[QUOTE]Originally posted by K & L
[B]If you pull your hand away if a cat is biting or scratching it, they see this as encouragement just like stalking their prey. Try letting your hand go limp and firmly say no until the cat releases it grip. Then ignore the cat until normal behavior resumes. The cat may soon learn that it will receive no attention acting this way.

Great advice from K&L. My Elvis was very difficult for some time. I used K&L's technique when he would swat at me, especially when he used his claws. He still does it sometimes when he's irritated, but he lets go right away when he sees that I don't pull my hand away abruptly. I agree that it's the hunter instinct coming through. Ignoring him right after this behavior lets him know that I don't want to play if he's going to do this. On the other hand, I give him lots of loving when he's being sweet. I want him to sense the difference in my reaction to what he does: bad behavior=no attention; good behavior=lots of praise and ear scratches.

Good Luck!