Have you ever noticed your cat performing a peculiar action, where they rhythmically push and pull with their paws against a soft object? This behavior, known as cat kneading or making biscuits, is quite common among felines. While it may seem odd to us humans, there are several reasons why cats engage in this behavior. In this article, we will explore the meaning of cat kneading, why cats knead, and the benefits it brings to our feline friends.
Meaning of Cat Kneading
Cat kneading is often compared to the actions of a baker kneading dough, hence the term “making biscuits.” It typically involves a cat using their front paws to push and manipulate a soft surface, such as a blanket, pillow, or even your own body. While each cat may vary in their kneading technique, common movements include alternating between paws or using a gentle scratching motion alongside the kneading.
Experts believe that cat kneading behavior stems from their early kittenhood. Kittens instinctively engage in kneading when nursing from their mother. This action helps stimulate milk production and promotes bonding between the mother and her offspring. As cats grow older, the kneading behavior often remains ingrained in their instinctual repertoire.
Why Do Cats Knead?
There are several reasons why cats knead, and it’s not simply a random or arbitrary action. Let’s explore some of the main motivations behind this behavior:
1. Instinctual Behavior
As mentioned earlier, cat kneading is deeply rooted in a cat’s instincts. The action of kneading resembles the motions kittens make when nursing, associating the behavior with comfort, security, and contentment. It serves as a way for cats to reminisce about their kittenhood and evoke feelings of warmth and safety.
2. Marking Territory
Cats have scent glands located on their paw pads, which release pheromones when they knead. By kneading a specific area, such as your lap or a blanket, cats leave their scent as a way of marking their territory. This behavior is particularly common when cats are in a relaxed state and feel a sense of ownership over the space.
3. Stretching and Exercise
Another reason cats knead is to help stretch and exercise their muscles. The pushing and pulling motions involved in kneading act as a form of feline calisthenics, providing cats with an opportunity to flex their limbs and work out any stiffness or tension in their muscles. It also helps promote healthy circulation.
4. Seeking Comfort and Security
Similar to how kneading is comforting for kittens while nursing, adult cats continue to find solace and security when engaging in this behavior. The rhythmic motion of kneading stimulates the release of endorphins, which can have a calming effect and alleviate stress and anxiety. Cats often seek comfort in familiar objects or individuals, and kneading helps create a sense of relaxation and emotional well-being.
Benefits of Cat Kneading
While cat kneading may be puzzling at times, it offers several benefits for both cats and their owners:
1. Bonding and Affection
Kneading is often accompanied by purring, a vocalization cats make when they are content. When cats knead on you, whether it’s your lap or your stomach, it’s a sign of trust and affection. By allowing your cat to knead on you, you are strengthening the bond between you and your feline companion.
2. Stress Relief
The repetitive and soothing nature of kneading helps cats release tension and reduce stress. If your cat kneads on your stomach or a soft surface, it’s likely a sign that she feels safe and secure in your presence. By providing a comfortable environment for your cat to knead, you are assisting in their overall well-being.
3. Aromatherapy for Cats
As mentioned earlier, cats have scent glands on their paw pads. When they knead, these glands release pheromones that create a familiar and soothing scent. This scent provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, similar to how certain scents can be calming for humans. By kneading, cats are essentially creating their own form of aromatherapy.
4. Stimulating Blood Flow
Kneading involves the flexing and stretching of a cat’s muscles, which helps improve blood circulation. By stimulating blood flow, kneading can promote healthier muscles and joints, especially in older or less active cats. It also aids in preventing muscle stiffness and promoting overall physical well-being.
Kneading in Cats
Kneading is a widespread behavior among cats, and it is not limited to a specific breed or age group. However, some cats may display more kneading behavior than others due to individual differences or certain factors such as early weaning or breeding conditions.
If your cat kneads excessively or demonstrates discomfort or pain while kneading, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian. Although rare, certain underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis or skin allergies, can cause kneading-related discomfort. A veterinarian can conduct a thorough examination and provide appropriate guidance.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits?
Now that we have explored the reasons behind cat kneading behavior, you may be wondering why it is often referred to as “making biscuits.” The term “making biscuits” is a playful and affectionate way to describe cat kneading. It is likely derived from the idea that kneading resembles the actions of a baker kneading dough to make biscuits in the kitchen.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits on You?
If you have ever experienced the sensation of your cat kneading on you, whether it’s your lap, chest, or limbs, consider yourself lucky. When cats knead on their owners, it is a sign of trust, affection, and comfort. Your cat sees you as a source of security and warmth, and kneading is their way of expressing their love and contentment.
It’s important to note that some cats may prefer to knead on certain individuals within a household or exhibit this behavior more frequently with a specific person. Factors such as the cat’s bond with the individual, the person’s scent, or the cat’s past experiences can influence this preference.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits on Your Stomach?
Cats often choose to knead on their owner’s stomach. This behavior may stem from a combination of the following reasons:
1. Warmth and Comfort
Your stomach area provides a warm and cozy spot for your cat to knead. The gentle rhythmic motion of kneading combined with the warmth of your body can create a soothing and comfortable experience for your feline friend.
2. Bonding and Security
When a cat kneads on your stomach, it signifies a deep level of trust and a desire for bonding. Your cat perceives your stomach as a safe and secure space, reinforcing the emotional connection between you both. It is a way for your cat to seek closeness and strengthen the bond that you share.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits and Purr?
Many cats not only knead but also purr simultaneously. The combination of kneading and purring is a behavior seen in content and happy cats. Here’s why cats make biscuits and purr:
1. Double Comfort
Kneading and purring go hand in hand for many cats. The rhythmic motion of kneading coupled with the soothing vibrations of purring creates a comforting experience for felines. It’s their way of expressing complete relaxation and happiness.
2. Communication
Cats purr for various reasons, including communication. When a cat purrs while kneading, it can be seen as a form of communication directed towards their owners or fellow feline companions. The combination of kneading and purring serves as a way for cats to convey contentment and seek attention or affection.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits Before They Lay Down?
If you observe your cat making biscuits on a blanket or soft surface just before settling down for a nap, it is an instinctual behavior. Here’s why cats make biscuits before they lay down:
1. Creating a Cozy Bed
Cats naturally have an innate need to create a comfortable sleeping spot. By kneading on a blanket or soft surface, they are essentially “fluffing” it up to suit their preferences. The gentle massaging and kneading actions help arrange the material, making it more comfortable for them to curl up and rest.
2. Marking Territory
As mentioned earlier, cats have scent glands on their paw pads. By kneading on a particular blanket or area, they leave their scent behind as a way of marking their territory. It’s a signal to other cats that the spot is claimed and serves as a form of communication between felines.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits on Blankets?
Blankets are a common target for cat kneading, and there are a few reasons why cats prefer this soft surface:
1. Comfort and Familiarity
Blankets provide a cozy and soft texture that cats find comforting and familiar. The material allows for a pleasant kneading experience and offers warmth and security, similar to what kittens experience while nursing.
2. Sense of Ownership
Cats often develop a sense of ownership over their favorite blankets. By kneading on the blanket, they are marking it with their scent and signaling to other cats that the territory is claimed. It’s a way of reinforcing their ownership and creating a space that is uniquely theirs.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits on Me?
If your cat kneads on you, whether it’s your lap, legs, or arms, consider it a sign of ultimate trust and affection. Here are some reasons why cats make biscuits on their owners:
1. Bonding and Attachment
Cats knead on their owners as a way to strengthen the bond and attachment between them. The rhythmic motion of kneading, accompanied by purring, helps create a sense of intimacy and closeness. It’s their way of showing love and appreciation.
2. Your Scent
Cats have a keen sense of smell and are highly influenced by scents. When a cat kneads on you, whether it’s your clothing or your skin, they are attracted to your unique scent. Your scent provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, making you a preferred kneading surface.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits on Soft Blankets?
Cats have a natural affinity for soft blankets, and the reasons behind their preference include:
1. Texture and Comfort
Soft blankets offer a pleasing texture that cats enjoy kneading. The material provides a gentle resistance to their paws, creating a satisfying sensation. The action of kneading on a soft blanket also helps relax their muscles and provides comfort.
2. Behavioral Reinforcement
If your cat has been positively reinforced in the past while kneading on a soft blanket, they may continue to engage in this behavior. Whether it’s receiving attention, treats, or a peaceful environment, cats can associate the act of kneading on a soft blanket with positive experiences, leading to its repetition.
So, the next time your feline friend starts making biscuits, you’ll have a better understanding of why they engage in this behavior. Whether it’s a sign of comfort, affection, or a way to mark their territory, kneading is just one of the many ways that cats communicate and express themselves.
Remember to provide your cat with a safe and comfortable environment where they can freely engage in their kneading behavior. Embrace the gentle and rhythmic motions of kneading as a testament to the unique bond you share with your feline companion.
