Cat owners have likely experienced moments when their feline presses its two front paws alternately on us, blankets, or soft pillows, resembling dough kneading. Cat lovers jokingly call this behavior " Making Biscuits " because it looks like kneading dough for baking.
Although many see this as a way cats cling to their owners, the kneading habit originates from kittenhood and can mean various things, from feeling relaxed and building bonds to leaving scent marks on favorite spots.
From kittenhood, cats use their paws to press alternately on their mother's teats to stimulate milk flow. This instinctive behavior requires no teaching. Even after weaning, many cats retain this habit because kneading is linked to early experiences of nursing, warmth, and closeness to their mother.
If a cat kneads a blanket, pillow, or its owner while appearing relaxed or purring, it signals the cat feels calm, happy, and safe. This behavior often evokes the comfort felt as a kitten and usually occurs when the cat is preparing to rest or sleep.
Cats don't knead just anyone. If your cat kneads on your lap or body, it may be a sign it feels safe and trusts you. Some kitten behaviors toward their mother are adapted to people they bond with as adults. Thus, kneading is a social behavior that builds and reflects the relationship between cat and owner.
Cat paws have scent glands. When cats press or knead surfaces, they leave their scent behind. So kneading on blankets, beds, or even their owners is another way cats create familiar scents in places they feel comfortable or mark their preferred spots and people.
Kneading isn't only emotional; alternating pressing with front paws helps cats stretch muscles. It's common to see cats kneading soft spots before lying down. This behavior serves both as stretching and part of their routine to feel ready for rest.
Therefore, if your cat never kneads you, it doesn't mean it doesn't love or trust you. Cats may show affection in other ways, such as purring, rubbing their head or body against you, sitting nearby, or following you around.
Source:Popular ScienceandScientific American
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