If you’ve seen your cat rhythmically pressing its paws on a soft surface, you’re witnessing a natural and instinctual behavior called kneading. Often referred to as “making biscuits,” this behavior involves alternating paw presses, typically on cushions, blankets, or even on their favorite humans.

While it might appear random, this behavior actually has several underlying reasons tied to a cat’s instincts, emotions, and physical needs. Let’s delve into the intriguing reasons why cats engage in kneading and what this behavior reveals about their distinctive personalities.

1. Instinctual Comfort from Kittenhood

Kneading is thought to stem from a behavior learned during kittenhood. When nursing, kittens instinctively knead their mother’s belly with their small paws to help stimulate milk production. This rhythmic motion provides them with comfort and security, as it is linked to the warmth and nourishment they receive from their mother.

While matured cats no longer need to nurse, they often continue to knead as a comforting behavior. It signifies that your cat feels comfortable and secure, as kneading evokes positive memories of being nurtured during kittenhood.

2. Marking Territory with Scent Glands

Cats are territorial animals and employ various methods to claim their space. One such method is kneading, as they have scent glands in the soft pads of their paws. When they knead, they release their unique scent onto the surface, effectively marking it as their territory.

When your cat kneads a blanket, sofa, or even you, they’re not just engaging in a rhythmic behavior; they’re also subtly marking you as part of their territory. This scent-marking behavior is how cats establish a sense of familiarity and ownership in their surroundings.

3. Preparing a Comfortable Spot to Rest

In the wild, cats would knead materials like grass, leaves, or other soft surfaces to create a comfortable area for resting or nesting. This behavior likely traces back to their ancestors, who would knead to flatten surfaces and create a comfortable spot to rest or give birth. Kneading allowed them to create a secure and cozy resting place, free from any unwanted objects like sticks, rocks, or debris.

When indoor cats knead, it may be a manifestation of this natural instinct to create a comfortable and secure resting place. Even with soft beds and blankets available, the behavior is an instinctual action meant to create a comfortable, inviting resting spot. When your cat kneads on a blanket or cushion, they’re likely following an ancient instinct to make the area feel comfortable and suitable for resting before they settle in for a nap.

4. Kneading as a Form of Stretching and Exercise

Kneading also plays a role in supporting your cat’s physical health. The alternating motion of pushing their paws helps stretch and strengthen their muscles, particularly in the paws and forelimbs. This exercise helps keep their muscles flexible and strong, which is especially beneficial for indoor cats that may otherwise be less active.

Just as humans stretch to stay flexible, cats use kneading to stretch their paws and relieve tension. This rhythmic motion provides a soothing and effective stretch, helping cats maintain muscle flexibility and overall comfort.

5. Showing Affection and Bonding

When cats knead on their owners, it shows they view them as trusted figures and are expressing their emotional connection. This behavior is often a sign of affection and helps strengthen the bond between them. This is especially true if kneading is accompanied by purring, head bunting, or other signs of feline affection.

Kneading on you indicates that your cat is expressing trust and affection. Similar to how a dog might cuddle with their owner, a cat’s kneading is a way of showing that they feel secure and content. This affectionate behavior is a compliment from your cat, indicating that they feel secure and comfortable enough to share this instinctive and soothing action with you.

6. A Sign of Relaxation and Contentment

Cats often knead when they are in a relaxed state, which is why they tend to do it on soft surfaces like blankets, pillows, or laps. Kneading can be part of a larger routine for cats when “settling down” before a nap. This action helps them relax and release any tension they may be feeling, making it a calming and comforting behavior.

The behavior is often accompanied by purring, half-closed eyes, or even a trance-like state, indicating that kneading brings them a profound sense of satisfaction. Cats, like many animals, have routines and rituals that help them feel secure and at ease. Kneading is one of these soothing actions that helps them settle into a relaxed state, providing comfort and a sense of security.

7. Kneading as a Sign of Happiness and Security

Kneading is most commonly observed in content and well-adjusted cats, which is why it’s frequently seen in household pets. Cats that are stressed or anxious are less likely to exhibit this behavior, as it is closely associated with relaxation and happiness. When a cat kneads, it signifies that they feel safe, comfortable, and secure in their environment.

If your cat often kneads, it’s a good indication that they are relaxed and comfortable in their environment. This behavior is a way for them to show that they feel secure and at peace, signaling a deep sense of contentment with their surroundings.

When your cat starts kneading, it’s a way for them to express comfort and affection. Let them enjoy this natural behavior, as it’s a sign of their trust and happiness. Just keep a soft blanket or cushion nearby to avoid any discomfort from their kneading paws.