Have you ever watched your feline companion rhythmically pushing their paws against a soft surface? Whether it’s a cozy blanket or even your own lap, cat kneading is a familiar sight in many households. But why do cats knead? Here’s a closer look at this curious behavior and what it means for your furry friend.
1. Instinctual Behavior
Cat kneading is instinctual and begins in kittenhood. When nursing, kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. This alternating motion of their front paws becomes a comfort behavior that continues into adulthood. It’s theorized that adult cats knead as a way to express happiness or when encountering a soft object, like a blanket. Additionally, cats have scent glands in their paws, suggesting that kneading could be a way to mark territory with their scent.
2. Signs of Stress
While kneading is usually a sign of contentment, it can also indicate stress. If your cat suddenly kneads excessively, it might be a sign of anxiety or discomfort. Changes in your schedule or home environment can trigger this behavior. It’s essential to observe your cat’s overall behavior and consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned.
3. Instinctive, Not Learned
Contrary to popular belief, kittens don’t learn to knead from their mother. It’s an innate behavior. When kittens knead, they’re instinctively stimulating milk flow, not imitating their mother’s actions.
4. Normal Cat Behavior
A cat drooling while kneading is entirely normal. Drooling often accompanies contentment in cats. However, if your cat drools excessively without kneading, it could signal a medical issue and requires veterinary attention.
5. Wild Cats and Big Cats Knead Too
Even wild cats like lions and tigers knead. Domestic cats share a common ancestor with these wild cats, and the behavior persists in both. It’s a nesting behavior, suggesting cats are checking the surface for suitability and perhaps even fluffing it up for comfort.
Here are some additional insights into cat kneading:
- Why Cats Knead on Blankets: Cats may knead on blankets because the soft texture reminds them of their mother’s belly, providing a sense of comfort.
- Purring and Kneading: When a cat purrs and kneads simultaneously, it signifies contentment and satisfaction.
- How to Respond: If you enjoy your cat’s kneading, let them continue as long as it’s comfortable for you. If not, redirect them to a soft surface and consider using feline pheromone spray to encourage kneading there.
- Managing Sharp Claws: For owners concerned about sharp claws during kneading, regular nail trimming or using nail caps can help protect your skin.
- “Making Biscuits”: Cat kneading is sometimes referred to as “making biscuits” due to the similarity in motion to kneading dough.
Understanding cat kneading enhances your bond with your feline friend. It’s a natural behavior rooted in instinct and comfort, providing insights into your cat’s emotional state.