Cat owners often witness a peculiar yet endearing behavior from their feline companions: kneading. You might be relaxing on the couch, and suddenly, your cat starts rhythmically pushing their paws into your lap, a blanket, or even the soft cushion beside you. This action, often referred to as “making biscuits,” can leave you curious and perhaps a little puzzled. So, why do cats knead, especially on you? Let’s delve into the fascinating reasons behind this common feline behavior.
What is Cat Kneading?
Kneading is that instinctive action where cats use their front paws to push into and pull back from a soft surface. It’s a repetitive, rhythmic motion, often alternating between paws, and it can indeed resemble a baker kneading dough. This behavior is observed in cats of all ages and breeds and is a perfectly normal part of feline behavior. But what drives this “biscuit-making” in our beloved pets?
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits On Me?
While some cats are content kneading on inanimate objects, many prefer to knead on their human companions. If you’ve ever been the recipient of your cat’s kneading paws, you might wonder, “Why me?” Here are several key reasons why your cat might be making biscuits specifically on you:
Reason #1: A Sign of Affection and Comfort
One of the most heartwarming reasons behind kneading is that it’s a profound display of affection. Cats often knead when they feel content, safe, and loved. When your cat chooses to knead on you, it’s a significant compliment. They are essentially telling you that they feel incredibly comfortable and secure in your presence. Think of it as their way of saying, “I love you and feel safe with you.” This behavior is often accompanied by purring, further emphasizing their happy and relaxed state. The act of kneading releases endorphins in their brains, contributing to their overall feeling of well-being and associating those positive feelings with you.
Reason #2: Seeking Comfort and Relaxation
Cats are creatures of comfort, and kneading is often a self-soothing behavior. Just like humans might fidget or tap their feet when relaxed, cats knead to create a sense of comfort and prepare for relaxation or sleep. The rhythmic pushing and pulling motion can be very soothing for them. When they knead on you, it’s likely they are seeking the ultimate cozy spot, and you, in their eyes, are providing that perfect soft and comforting surface. This is why you might notice your cat kneading on you just before they settle down for a nap or a cuddle session.
Reason #3: Territory Marking Through Scent Glands
Cats are territorial animals, and they use scent marking to establish their domain. Interestingly, cats have scent glands in their paws. When they knead, these glands are activated, releasing pheromones. By kneading on you, your cat is marking you as their territory, in a loving way! They are essentially claiming you as safe and familiar. This scent marking is not something we can smell, but it’s a crucial form of communication for cats. It reinforces their sense of security and belonging within their environment and with you.
Reason #4: A Form of Communication or Attention-Seeking
Sometimes, kneading can be your cat’s way of communicating their needs or seeking your attention. If your cat starts kneading on you, especially if accompanied by meowing or rubbing, they might be trying to tell you something. Perhaps they are hungry, want to play, or simply crave your interaction. Paying attention to the context of their kneading behavior can help you understand what they are trying to communicate. Are they kneading around feeding time? Or when they seem bored? Observing these patterns can deepen your understanding of your cat’s needs and strengthen your bond.
Reason #5: Instinct from Kittenhood – A Link to Nursing
Perhaps the most widely accepted theory behind kneading is its origin in kittenhood. Kittens instinctively knead around their mother’s mammary glands while nursing. This action stimulates milk flow, ensuring they get the nourishment they need. Even as adult cats, this ingrained behavior persists. Kneading on a soft surface, like your lap, can evoke those early feelings of comfort and security associated with nursing and their mother’s care. This primal instinct is deeply rooted and continues to manifest throughout their lives as a comfort-seeking behavior.
Do Cats Ever Stop Making Biscuits?
For most cats, kneading is a behavior that continues throughout their adult lives. There’s generally no need to stop a cat from kneading unless their claws are causing discomfort. Regularly trimming your cat’s nails can help mitigate any potential scratches during their kneading sessions. Instead of discouraging this natural behavior, embrace it as a sign of your cat’s affection and contentment. “Making biscuits” on you is a special way your cat shows they love and trust you, offering a unique opportunity for bonding and enjoying those precious feline cuddles.
So, the next time your cat starts kneading on you, remember it’s likely a sign of love, comfort, and deep trust. Enjoy these moments – you are, after all, your cat’s favorite biscuit-making spot!
