If you’ve ever experienced a kneading cat, you may have noticed that they often purr and drool as they do it. It’s a unique behavior that has been intriguing cat owners for centuries and has many potential meanings. So why do cats knead? Let’s explore the science and psychology behind this unique behavior.

What is Cat Kneading?

Most cats knead but don’t all do it the same way. Even though their hands usually move the same way, the other things they do may be different. Some cats purr loudly, while others do it quietly. Some cats only use their front paws to purr, while others give it their all and use all four. Most cats will do the famous “making biscuits” move at least once. Also, when cats knead, they often seem to be in a trance-like state and look like their eyes are almost closed. This means that they’re not worried about anything.

What Does Cat Kneading Mean?

Cats knead blankets and other soft items for a variety of reasons. Cats frequently knead to demonstrate their enjoyment. Your cat may knead on your lap to express their love and pleasure. A stressed cat may knead in order to achieve a soothing, tranquil state of mind. 

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Cat kneading is an instinctive habit that cats develop as kittens. When kittens are nursing from their mothers, they will paw at their mothers’ stomachs to promote milk flow from their teats. Because they are looking forward to the milk that was once associated with movement, cats may dribble or suckle at a soft object such as a blanket or cushion.

While it may appear weird that cats knead as they age, the Blue Cross says it’s a tremendous compliment for you since it signifies they feel happy, safe, and reassured with you, just like they did with their mother!

Cats Knead and Pad for Other Purposes

Going into Heat

Female cats may also knead during oestrus (also known as heat). According to PetMD, this behavior signals to male cats that they are eager to mate. In addition, they may exhibit other behaviors, such as excessive vocalization, increased affection, and pleading to go outside.

If these behaviors are related to oestrus, neutering or spaying may reduce them. Neutering can also help avoid unwanted pregnancies and prevent certain diseases.

Marking Territory

Due to scent glands that release pheromones in their paws, it is conceivable that cats are attempting to designate their territory when they knead. By moving their paws in and out, cats activate their scent glands, so they may be doing this on your lap to identify you as their territory and warn other cats to stay away.

Hopefully, this has answered the burning question of why cats knead. You realize now that you should accept it as the highest praise your cat could give you.

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