Quck answer
Cats knead as a way to show affection and mark their territory. This behavior is instinctual and is often associated with a pleasant purring sound. Kneading is a carryover from kittenhood when cats would knead their mother’s nipples to stimulate milk flow. This action releases endorphins, which can help cats relax and feel more comfortable. Some cats may knead excessively due to anxiety or stress, so it’s important to monitor their behavior and provide them with a calm and stable environment. Overall, kneading is a natural behavior for cats and is a sign of their contentment and happiness.
Pets
Cats tend to knead on soft surfaces such as blankets before taking a nap. Although this behavior is normal, it can cause damage, so it is essential to keep your cat’s nails trimmed. K Lim/Shutterstock
It is a common sight when you sit on the couch to watch your favorite series or read a book, and your furry feline friend comes with an intent look on her face and a purr at the ready.
She places her paw pads on your leg and starts kneading, which is cute, but sometimes it hurts. However, you can’t help but notice how happy she is. But why do cats knead, and do all cats knead?
What is Cat Kneading?
There are various reasons why a cat kneads, but what is kneading? When your cat “massages” something with her front paws or all four paws by extending and retracting one paw at a time, it is called cat kneading.
It was named cat kneading because it looks like kneading dough. You may have seen your cat kneading and wondered if it is normal or not.
Baby, We Were Born to Knead
Newborn kittens knead to stimulate milk production while nursing, and adult cats associate kneading with the comfort of nursing. Rembolle/Shutterstock
Kittens have an instinct to knead when they are born. While nursing, they knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production to feed the baby kittens. This action is called “milk treading,” which is less cute than the more common term “making biscuits.” When kittens are tucked up against their mother’s teat, they are warm and content.
Even after kittens are weaned, they continue to knead when they’re happy. Some adult cats knead with their front and back paws.
Previously, people used to think that adult cats kneaded because they were weaned too early, but it seems unlikely. Almost all cats knead, regardless of when they were weaned. Many cats knead even if they grow up in the same house with their mother.
I Put a Scent on You
A cat is kneading on its owner’s lap, while purring contentedly. ADavey/Flickr/(CC BY 2.0)
Kneading is not just a cute behavior; there are other reasons behind it. Cats have scent glands near their cheeks, at the base of their tail, and in the pads of their paws. When they knead on blankets, pillows, or even your stomach while you both watch Netflix, they leave behind a trace of their scent, marking their territory. Your cat has marked you, and probably every soft surface in the house as hers.
Another theory about cat kneading is that it comes from their wild ancestors who lived outdoors without a pillow or lap to sleep on. They would knead to make the ground soft enough for sleeping by trampling tall grass and roughing up the ground. It is similar to the theory about why dogs turn around in circles before settling down to sleep.
Unfortunate Claw Usage
It can be frustrating when a feline uses her claws to knead soft surfaces, such as your sofa, but punishing her is not the answer. Kneading is a natural behavior for cats and indicates happiness, so it’s best to avoid negative reinforcement. Instead, try gently guiding your cat into a resting position, and she may drift off to sleep. If her kneading is causing damage to your furniture or skin, consider investing in plastic claw covers or trimming her claws. Whatever you do, never declaw your cat.
FAQ
1. What is kneading and why do cats do it?
Kneading is the rhythmic pawing motion that cats make with their front paws. This behavior is also known as “making biscuits” or “milk treading.” Cats knead for several reasons, including marking their territory, stretching their muscles, and expressing happiness and contentment.
2. Is kneading a sign of affection?
Yes, kneading is often a sign of affection. When cats knead, they release endorphins, which are feel-good hormones. This behavior can be seen as a way for cats to show their love and trust for their owners.
3. Why do cats knead on soft objects?
Cats prefer to knead on soft objects because it feels good on their paws. Additionally, soft objects like blankets and pillows can remind cats of their mother’s belly, which they used to knead on while nursing. Kneading on soft objects can also help cats relax and feel more comfortable.
4. Do all cats knead?
Most cats knead to some extent, but not all cats do it regularly. Some cats may knead more frequently than others, especially when they are feeling particularly happy or relaxed.
5. Can kneading be harmful?
Kneading itself is not harmful, but cats’ claws can be sharp and cause damage to furniture or fabrics. Additionally, some cats may become too enthusiastic while kneading and accidentally scratch their owners. Trimming cats’ claws regularly can help prevent any accidental scratching.
6. Is it only domestic cats that knead?
No, wild cats like lions and tigers also knead. In the wild, kneading can help cats create a comfortable spot to sleep or relax. However, domestic cats may knead more frequently because they are often kept indoors and have access to soft objects like blankets and pillows.
7. Can kneading be a sign of stress?
Although kneading is often a sign of contentment, it can also be a sign of stress. Some cats may knead excessively when they are feeling anxious or uncomfortable. If your cat is kneading more than usual and also exhibiting other signs of stress, such as hiding or avoiding interaction, it may be a good idea to talk to your veterinarian.
8. How can I encourage my cat to knead?
You can encourage your cat to knead by providing soft surfaces for them to knead on, such as blankets or pillows. Massaging your cat’s paws can also help stimulate the kneading reflex. However, it’s important to remember that not all cats enjoy being touched on their paws, so be sure to approach your cat gently and watch for any signs of discomfort.
9. Can kneading be a sign of illness?
In most cases, kneading is a harmless and natural behavior. However, excessive kneading or kneading in unusual places can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis or an injury. If your cat’s kneading behavior changes suddenly or becomes more frequent, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian.
10. Can male cats knead?
Yes, male cats can and do knead. Kneading is not a behavior that is limited to female cats or kittens. Both male and female cats can knead for the same reasons, including marking their territory and expressing happiness and contentment.
Leave a Reply