Cats kneading, often adorably described as “making biscuits,” is a common and curious behavior observed in our feline companions. This instinctive action, where cats rhythmically push their paws into a soft surface, like a blanket or your lap, is a familiar sight to cat lovers. But what exactly drives this kneading behavior in cats? Is it just a leftover habit from kittenhood, or is there more to it? Let’s delve into the reasons behind why cats knead and explore the various theories that explain this fascinating feline trait.
The Kittenhood Connection: Nursing and Comfort
For most cats, kneading is a behavior rooted in their early kitten days. When nursing, kittens instinctively knead around their mother’s teats to stimulate milk flow. This action is not only practical for feeding but also becomes associated with the warmth, comfort, and security of their mother’s presence. The calming pheromones released by the mother cat during nursing further reinforce this positive association. As a result, many cats carry this kneading behavior into adulthood, linking it to feelings of contentment, relaxation, and security, reminiscent of their nurturing kittenhood.
Wild Instincts: Bedding Down and Preparation
Beyond the comfort link to kittenhood, kneading also has roots in the natural behaviors of wild felines. In their natural habitats, wild cats often knead soft grasses, leaves, or other bedding materials to create a comfortable and safe sleeping spot. This action helps to tamp down the bedding, making it softer and potentially dislodging any hidden insects or debris. Domestic cats may exhibit this same instinctual kneading behavior on their beds, blankets, and favorite resting places, preparing their chosen spot for a peaceful rest.
Scent Marking: Claiming Territory with Paws
Cats possess scent glands located in their paws, specifically between their toes. When a cat kneads, these scent glands are activated, and their unique pheromones are deposited onto the surface being kneaded. This scent marking serves as a way for cats to claim their territory and possessions. By kneading on objects or even people, cats are essentially saying, “This is mine!” and leaving their olfactory signature for other cats to detect. This territorial marking behavior is a vital aspect of feline communication and spatial control.
Muscle Stretching: A Physical Benefit
Another theory suggests that kneading might serve a more practical purpose for cats: stretching their muscles and relieving tension in their limbs. The rhythmic pushing motion involved in kneading can act as a gentle exercise for their paws and legs. This stretching could be particularly beneficial after periods of rest or inactivity, helping to improve circulation and flexibility.
Why Blankets and Soft Objects are Kneaded
Cats are particularly drawn to kneading blankets and other soft items due to a combination of the reasons mentioned above:
- Comfort and Stress Relief: Soft textures and the repetitive motion of kneading can evoke the comforting feelings of nursing, helping cats to relax and alleviate stress. Some cats may even suckle on the blanket while kneading, further mimicking the nursing experience.
- Bedding Preparation: The softness of blankets and similar materials makes them ideal for replicating the bedding-down behavior observed in wild cats. Kneading helps to create a cozy and comfortable sleeping surface.
- Territory Marking: Blankets and soft objects often become favorite resting spots for cats. Kneading allows them to effectively mark these items with their scent, solidifying their claim over them.
Kneading on You: A Sign of Affection
When your cat chooses to knead on you, it’s often considered a high compliment and a sign of affection. The reasons for kneading on humans are similar to those for kneading blankets: seeking comfort, preparing a resting spot (on your lap or stomach!), and scent marking. However, kneading on you carries an additional layer of meaning:
- Affection and Bonding: Because kneading is associated with the comfort and security of kittenhood and their mother, when a cat kneads on you, it can be interpreted as a demonstration of trust and affection. They are essentially treating you like a surrogate mother, associating you with the same feelings of comfort and safety.
- Claiming You: Just as cats knead objects to mark their territory, kneading on you can also be a way for them to claim you as their own. By depositing their pheromones on you, they are marking you with their scent, signaling to other cats (and perhaps themselves) that you belong to them.
When Kneading Becomes a Concern
While kneading is generally a normal and healthy behavior, excessive or increased kneading can sometimes indicate underlying issues. The act of kneading releases dopamine, a feel-good chemical in the brain. If a cat is feeling stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable, they may knead more frequently as a way to self-soothe and trigger the release of dopamine.
Increased kneading can be a sign of:
- Stress or Anxiety: Changes in environment, routine, or the presence of stressors can lead to increased kneading as a coping mechanism.
- Compulsive Behavior: In some cases, excessive kneading can become a compulsive behavior, driven by the dopamine release and potentially indicating an underlying behavioral disorder.
- Pain or Discomfort: Cats experiencing pain from injuries or conditions like arthritis may knead to stretch their muscles and relieve tension, attempting to alleviate their discomfort.
If you observe a sudden increase in your cat’s kneading or if it seems excessive, it’s advisable to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical or behavioral concerns.
Managing Cat Kneading: Redirecting and Protecting
For the most part, kneading is a natural behavior that should be allowed and even appreciated. However, if your cat’s kneading becomes uncomfortable due to sharp claws, or if it’s damaging furniture, there are ways to manage and redirect the behavior without discouraging it entirely:
- Consult Your Vet: If you suspect stress, anxiety, or a medical issue is causing excessive kneading, your veterinarian can offer guidance and potential solutions, including medications, supplements, or pheromone diffusers like Feliway®.
- Provide Appropriate Kneading Surfaces: Offer your cat designated kneading spots, such as soft blankets, plush beds, or scratching posts with soft fabric sections. Encourage them to use these spots by rewarding them with praise and treats when they do.
- Trim Claws Regularly: Keeping your cat’s claws trimmed will minimize any discomfort or damage caused by kneading, whether on your skin or furniture.
- Use a Barrier: If your cat kneads on your lap or stomach and it’s uncomfortable, place a thick blanket between you and their paws to create a comfortable barrier while still allowing them to express their natural behavior.
- Never Punish: Punishing your cat for kneading is counterproductive and can create fear and anxiety, potentially exacerbating the behavior. Instead, focus on positive redirection and providing appropriate outlets for their kneading instincts.
- Avoid Declawing: Declawing is a cruel and unnecessary procedure that should never be considered as a solution to kneading or scratching issues. It can lead to long-term pain, behavioral problems, and negatively impact your cat’s well-being.
By understanding the reasons behind cat kneading and implementing gentle management strategies, you can appreciate this unique feline behavior while ensuring both your cat’s comfort and your own.
References
Brister, JM. “Body Language of Cats,” Veterinary Partner. November 2018.
WRITTEN BY
Hannah Hart, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Hart graduated from veterinary school in 2017 and began her career with USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service as a public health…
