Why Do Cats Knead?

People knead dough. Cats knead blankets — and people. Cat kneading, also known as cats making biscuits, is a common behavior trait in cat kids. But what does it mean when a cat is kneading, and what does it mean when a cat kneads you? Read on to learn more.

Cats knead instinctively

Like many distinct cat behaviors, cat kneading is instinctual. Kittens knead their mothers while nursing, which not only stimulates milk production, but also releases calming pheromones. Cat kids also knead instinctively to:

• Stretch their limbs and muscles
• Prepare a spot for sleeping (like grasses in the wild or a cat bed in the living room)
• Mark their territory by depositing their scent onto whatever they’re kneading, whether it’s their favorite chair or their favorite person

Cats knead for comfort

Have you ever wondered, “Why does my cat make biscuits on my blanket?” or “Why does my cat knead my blanket and purr?” It’s because this instinctual behavior is also comforting. Those pheromones their cat mother released as your cat kid nursed programmed them to continue kneading out of kittenhood. The reason: cat kneading is a way to self-soothe and relax. Your cat kid may even mimic nursing behavior on the blanket they’re kneading. If so, it’s a good idea to give them their own blanket for everyone’s comfort.

Cats knead to show affection

Why do cats knead their owners? While the behavior is rooted in instinct, it’s also a way for kneading cats to bond with their pet parents. Sure, they may be marking you with their scent from their paws’ pheromone glands to claim you as theirs. They also may be showing you they feel safe with you — just like they felt with their cat mom. And if the cat kneading is coupled with slow blinking and purring, you’ll know the answer to “Why is my cat kneading me?” is simple: adoration.

You need kneading surfaces

While cats kneading is natural, it may also be detrimental to your couch and clothes. Make sure you have scratching posts you can point them toward when they head for the armrest — or your arm. You can also cut back on damage from scratching by trimming your cat kid’s nails regularly. This will help keep paws healthy — and kneading behavior endearing rather than destructive.