You've likely seen cats knead and wondered, Why do cats knead? Some pet owners worry that this behavior might indicate a medical issue, while others want to prevent their feline friends from pressing sharp claws into their skin.

No matter your reason for asking, Why do cats knead? rest assured that this behavior is completely normal and should be allowed. Discover why your adult cat kneads and how you can redirect destructive kneading behavior in our blog.

Kittens knead their mothers while nursing to stimulate milk production. Feline experts believe that adult cats knead to recreate the feel-good hormone release experienced during nursing. This kneading behavior brings comfort, helps them relax, and releases tension.

Another reason cats knead is to get comfortable. In the wild, cats knead soft surfaces like grass to create a cosy resting spot. Domestic cats display this natural kneading behavior on soft surfaces before lying down, and often continue to make biscuits to express contentment. Additionally, cats knead their favorite people or pets to show affection, much like they did with their mothers.

Scent glands in their feet play a role too. When a cat kneads soft bedding, places, or people, they leave scent markings, effectively claiming these items as their own. Understanding these reasons helps explain why cats naturally knead and why this behavior is an important part of a cat's life.

Cats knead their owners for several reasons, primarily rooted in instinct and emotional connection. This behavior, often referred to as "making biscuits," can be traced back to kittenhood when kittens knead their mothers to stimulate milk production. As adults, cats continue to knead because it recreates the release of feel good hormones, bringing them comfort and helping them relax.

Kneading also serves as a way for cats to show affection. When a cat kneads its owner, it mimics the nurturing and bonding behavior experienced with its mother, indicating a deep sense of trust and love. Additionally, cats have scent glands in their paws, so kneading on their owners leaves scent markings. This behavior signifies that they are marking their territory and claiming their owners as part of their safe, secure environment.

Moreover, kneading soft surfaces, including their owners, helps cats get comfortable. Just as wild cats knead grass to create a cosy resting spot, domestic cats knead to make their sleeping area more inviting. This natural kneading behaviour is a sign of contentment and security, making it an essential part of a cat's interaction with its owner.

When cats knead blankets or other soft objects, it's a natural behaviour deeply ingrained in their instincts. From kittenhood, when they knead their mother's mammary gland to stimulate milk flow, to adulthood, cats continue this behavior to self soothe and find comfort. Kneading helps cats feel secure and relaxed, often accompanied by purring, indicating contentment.

Why do cats knead on blankets? It serves as a way for cats to mark their territory, as their paw pads release pheromones onto the surface being kneaded. This affectionate behaviour lets cats show their love and bond with their owners, making them feel at home on their favorite blanket or cushion. So, when you see your cat kneading that soft blanket or pillow, know that it's a natural and comforting action that helps them feel at ease.

When cats knead and purr simultaneously, it often signifies a state of deep contentment and relaxation. The rhythmic motion of kneading, a natural behavior rooted in their instincts, combined with the soothing sound of purring, creates a comforting and calming experience for the cat. This behavior helps them self soothe and express affection, as they use their claws to gently knead soft surfaces like blankets or cushions. 

It's a behavior passed down from their wild ancestors, and it's how cats appear to express happiness and relaxation. Some cats may even cat dribble when they knead, further displaying their contentment and affection towards their owners.

• Kneading behavior in cats, often referred to as making biscuits, is believed to be a remnant instinct from kittenhood when they knead their mother

• It's a sign of comfort and contentment in cats, as they often knead soft surfaces like blankets or their owner's lap when they feel relaxed.

• Kneading may also serve as a territorial behavior, as cats have scent glands in their paw pads, leaving their scent behind as they knead.

• Some experts suggest that kneading helps cats stretch and flex their muscles, providing a form of physical exercise and relaxation.

• It could also be a self-soothing mechanism for cats, similar to how humans may engage in repetitive behaviors when feeling anxious or stressed.

Kneading in cats triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, a natural pain-relieving and mood enhancing chemical. Therefore, when an adult cat kneads excessively or more frequently, it could indicate discomfort or anxiety, as the cat seeks self soothing through this action. This behaviour, also known as making biscuits, often involves the cat's paw pads pressing into soft surfaces, such as blankets or cushions, as they knead.

Moreover, cats have scent glands in their paw pads, leaving their scent behind as they knead, which could be a way for them to mark their territory or express affection. Additionally, the rhythmic motion of kneading can be soothing for cats and reminiscent of their kittenhood, when they kneaded their mother's belly to stimulate milk flow.

In some cases, cats may drool or cat dribble while kneading, indicating a high level of relaxation and contentment. However, excessive kneading might signal a compulsive behavioral issue. Cats in pain from injuries or arthritis may knead to alleviate muscle tension and stretch their limbs.

If you observe your domestic cat kneading more than usual, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian. They can help identify any underlying medical or behavioral issues and provide appropriate care.