There is no precise answer as to why cats often perform kneading motions on soft surfaces, but this behavior may stem from instinct. They could be marking their territory, creating a comfortable place to sleep, or simply expressing affection.
For cat lovers, the list of endearing qualities and quirky behaviors can be extensive, but some traits stand out more than others, such as the habit of “kneading.” When a cat gently approaches you, climbs onto your lap, and begins to move its front paws up and down on your legs, it’s hard not to smile. This behavior, commonly seen in nearly all domestic cats, is often referred to as “making cookies” or “kneading.” It resembles your cat making dough for bread.
From a young age, kneading has been part of the daily activities of your cat.
Some cats “knead” gently and in a controlled manner, merely flexing their paws on a soft surface; others lift their paws high and stomp down, as if marching. It’s a humorous behavior, and many cat owners wonder about the origins of this strange action. In fact, feline experts have not reached a definitive conclusion, but several plausible theories exist.
Origins of the “Kneading” Behavior
From a young age, kneading has been part of the daily activities of your cat. Even when they are born, with their eyes still closed and nursing from their mother, kittens instinctively begin to “knead” the area around their mother’s nipples. Researchers indicate that this behavior stimulates milk flow, which is crucial for the survival and growth of kittens. However, this behavior persists throughout a cat’s life. Given that cats develop this habit early on, some experts believe that “kneading” is simply a remnant of feline behavior, one of their most primal instincts that never fades away.
When you see an adult cat “kneading” on a pillow, blanket, or on your lap, this behavior is usually accompanied by an unmistakable sound – a lazy purring as the cat pushes its paws back and forth on the surface. The connection between “kneading” and the expression of comfort and happiness when near their mother may explain why cats enjoy this repetitive action so much. In fact, some cats even scratch or nibble at the surface they are “kneading,” similar to what they would do with their mother’s teat.
Another reasonable explanation for this behavior relates to lions, tigers, and wild cats in the past. When these animals sought safe places to sleep and take shelter, they would press down on patches of grass to create a comfortable spot for themselves. This behavior was necessary to stay away from predators and ensure the area was safe for sleeping, or perhaps for birthing; to this day, cats still tend to “knead” on comfortable surfaces, such as blankets or pillows, but you rarely see them “kneading” on flat or empty ground.
Additionally, some believe that “kneading” is a territorial marking behavior of cats. Leaving traces or disturbing an area is a way for cats to assert that it is theirs, while the scent on a cat’s paws leaves a clear signal to other cats that the area is occupied. We humans cannot smell these distinctive scents, but they serve as a strong deterrent to other animals, acting as a tool for comfort and safety in a cat’s “castle.”
Cats knead to stretch their muscles: Cats are natural yoga masters and enjoy stretching after a nap. Similar to how we might stretch our shoulders when in pain, cats knead as one of the many ways to keep themselves supple and flexible until their next nap.
A Sign of Affection
Cat lovers might appreciate this final explanation the most, as it confirms that cats love their owners just as much as we love them. The behavior of “kneading” often occurs on their mother’s body, on pillows, blankets, or other soft surfaces that cats feel will help them sleep well. However, if your cat tends to “knead” on you (for instance: your waist, thighs, legs, chest…), it is a sign that they feel very comfortable being with you and have a sense of safety beside you, just like with their mother.
Kneading” is a completely natural behavior that provides cats with comfort and joy.
To attract a mate: Female cats have one more reason to knead. They may purr, stretch, and knead the air while lying on their side to signal to male cats that they are ready to mate. As the heat cycle continues, female cats will make loud, persistent calls to attract the attention of males.
To self-soothe: Besides kneading as a way to express affection, cats may also do it as a means of self-soothing. This action can bring a great sense of comfort. If your cat is left alone for extended periods, they may knead more when you are home. Therefore, try to spend more time with your cat. You can play with them in various ways, groom them, or simply cuddle and speak to them in a loving tone every day. This will help alleviate their stress.
The Downside of “Kneading”
Some cat owners feel anxious when their cats start to “knead,” as this behavior may resemble actions a cat takes in its small litter box – but in reality, they are very different behaviors. “Kneading” is a completely natural behavior that provides cats with comfort and joy. If your cat’s claws are not trimmed and they start “kneading” enthusiastically on the sofa, pillows, or blankets, it could cause some damage to those items. Apart from that, the behavior of “kneading” has virtually no downsides.
In such cases, you can trim your cat’s claws or train them to “knead” in designated areas. When your cat begins “kneading” on a surface you don’t want scratched, gently carry them to the designated “kneading” area, perhaps enticing them with a treat, to help them associate the new spot with their favorite activity and a satisfying reward.
Similarly, some cats enjoy “kneading” on their owners, but if they become too excited, you might end up uncomfortable. Gently pet your cat, or place a thick towel or blanket around your thigh area as a simple solution to stay close to your cat without feeling inconvenienced.
Conclusion
Just as we humans don’t all want the same things, not every cat “kneads” in the same way. Some will stomp their paws on blankets daily, while others may only “knead” your waist occasionally when they feel affectionate. We may not know exactly why cats engage in this behavior, but as mentioned, there are a variety of reasonable explanations that help clarify it. So, the next time your cat tries to make cookies on your lap, remember that they might just be trying to express a little love, as in their mind, you are the source of comfort and safety!
