If you’ve noticed, some cats just love kneading or “making biscuits”, as cat parents would tenderly call it. Like how a baker handles dough before placing it in the oven, a kneading cat massages or rhythmically sinks their toes onto a soft surface such as our lap, another pet, or a fluffy blanket perhaps. Such a sweet (yet sometimes painful) moment, isn’t it? But what does it mean when a cat kneads?
Some may wonder if it’s a sign of a medical issue, while others may be looking for ways to prevent their cats from sinking their claws into their laps. Whatever the reason, it helps to understand that kneading behavior in cats is totally normal, and is a feline’s natural way of expression. Come, and let’s discover all about cat kneading below.
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Content:
- Why Do Cats Knead Their Parents
- Why Does My Cat Knead My Blanket
- Why Do Cats Knead and Purr
- Conclusion
Why Do Cats Knead Their Parents
Why does my cat knead me and other soft surfaces? More specifically, why do cats knead their parents? Here are several theories as to why cats knead their parents as well as other soft surfaces.
Comfort and Relaxation
Dr. Susan Krebsbach, DVM, explains the widely-held theory is that the behavior originated from when kittens would knead their mothers’ bellies to stimulate milk flow, and continue this behavior after weaning to recreate the soothing hormone release they experienced as kittens, evoking comfort and trust.
Nesting Instinct
In the wild, cats knead grass to create a comfortable resting spot. Domestic cats do the same with soft surfaces, often kneading on blankets or laps before settling in for a nap.
Affection
Cats may knead their favorite people or pets to show love and affection. It's a sign of trust, mirroring the nurturing behavior they exhibited with their mothers during kittenhood.
Scent Marking
When a cat kneads, they leave behind scent markers from glands in their paws. This behavior helps them claim their space or loved ones as "theirs."
Bonding and Security
Kneading your lap or stomach can be a sign that your cat feels safe, comfortable, and deeply bonded with you. It's an expression of contentment, often paired with purring, as they enjoy your companionship.
Why Does My Cat Knead My Blanket
Why does my cat knead my blanket and purr? A cat kneading a blanket or other soft surfaces may be due to a variety of comforting reasons.
First, kneading often recalls the soothing experience of nursing, helping cats unwind and feel secure. Some even suckle while kneading, further mimicking kittenhood behavior.
On the other hand, domestic cats may also knead to "tamp down" their bedding, just like their wild ancestors. This instinctive behavior helps create a cozy, settled space for a restful nap.
Also, cats have scent glands in their paws, and when they knead, they may be leaving behind their unique scent. This marks the blanket as "theirs," signaling ownership and establishing a sense of territory.
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Why Do Cats Knead and Purr
Like what was mentioned earlier, kittens knead their mother’s belly while nursing to stimulate milk flow, associating the motion with comfort and care. This behavior, linked to feelings of safety and contentment, continues into adulthood. If a cat is kneading and purring on you, it’s likely a sign that they’re relaxed, happy, and showing affection towards you.
In a Reddit discussion on the same topic, the poster was asking why her cat was kneading while purring on the blanket all the time. A veterinary clinic staff commented and shared that this is what they called a “blanket sucker” at their clinic, referring to cats that were usually taken away from their moms too soon or those that were left too long with their mothers. They likely do it to calm themselves or when they feel happy and secure, sometimes even sucking on the blanket or other soft surfaces.
Conclusion
While some cat behaviors may remain a mystery, experts agree that kneading is perfectly natural. Letting your cat healthily express these instincts can keep them happy and content. If you're ever concerned about their behavior, don’t hesitate to consult with a veterinarian for advice.