If you're a cat owner, you’ve likely seen your cat kneading with their paws—pressing them alternately into soft surfaces like your lap, a blanket, or even a pillow. This adorable behavior, often referred to as "making biscuits" because of the motion resembling kneading dough, is something that most cats do at some point. But why do cats make biscuits, and what is the meaning behind this action? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind kneading and what it signifies for your feline friend.
What Is Kneading or "Making Biscuits"?
Kneading is a behavior where a cat rhythmically presses their paws into a soft surface, alternating between their left and right paws, often in a circular or up-and-down motion. While it may seem like an odd behavior, kneading is actually a natural and instinctual action that cats perform, often when they are relaxed, comfortable, or seeking comfort. The term "making biscuits" comes from the visual resemblance to the way humans knead dough when preparing bread.
But kneading doesn’t only happen when a cat is near dough or in the kitchen; this behavior is often seen when they’re snuggling with you or lounging on soft surfaces. Whether it’s your lap, a blanket, or even a fluffy cushion, cats will often knead these areas with their paws, sometimes purring contentedly as they do so.
Why Do Cats Make Biscuits? The Reasons Behind Kneading
There are several reasons why cats engage in the behavior of kneading, and these reasons can be traced back to their early kittenhood, evolutionary instincts, and even their emotional needs. Let's break down the primary causes:
1. Instinctive Kitten Behavior
Kneading is a behavior that kittens exhibit from a very young age, and it is one of the first things they learn from their mothers. Newborn kittens knead their mother’s belly while nursing to stimulate milk flow. This instinctual action is essential for their survival as it helps them latch on and feed more effectively.
As they grow older, adult cats retain this kneading behavior, though the motivation changes. Adult cats no longer need to knead to get milk, but the act can still be comforting because it’s associated with the feelings of security and warmth they experienced as kittens. Essentially, kneading serves as a comforting, self-soothing action that harkens back to their early life.
2. Marking Territory
Cats have scent glands located in their paws, and when they knead, they release a scent from these glands onto the surface they're kneading. This serves as a way for cats to mark their territory, as the scent is unique to them. In the wild, cats will often knead and rub against objects to leave their scent behind, signaling to other cats that the area is claimed.
When your cat kneads on your lap or on their favorite blanket, they may be marking you or the object as "theirs," signaling a sense of ownership. This is one of the reasons cats will often knead on soft, familiar places where they feel comfortable.
3. Comfort and Relaxation
Kneading is often associated with comfort and relaxation. Many cats will knead when they’re in a cozy, safe space, like lying in your lap or snuggling in their bed. Kneading releases endorphins in the cat’s brain, making them feel calm and happy, much like when a human receives a massage. It’s a self-soothing mechanism that helps cats relax and unwind.
You might notice that your cat will knead when they’re particularly content, such as when they’re being petted or cuddled. If you’ve ever seen your cat purring loudly and kneading away, it’s likely a sign that they’re in a state of pure comfort and happiness.
4. Nesting Behavior
Another reason cats knead is to prepare a surface for resting or sleeping. In the wild, their ancestors would knead grass, leaves, or soft earth to make a comfortable nest. Kneading helped create a more suitable spot to lie down, and it also allowed them to create a surface that would be softer and more insulated.
Even though your domestic cat doesn’t need to "prepare" a bed in the wild sense, the instinct to knead before lying down is still very much present. By kneading a soft surface, your cat may be subconsciously trying to "fluff" it up to make it more comfortable for themselves.
5. Affection and Bonding
Cats often knead on their owners as a way of showing affection and bonding. Much like how they knead their mothers as kittens to express their need for comfort, adult cats can transfer this behavior to their human companions. When a cat kneads on your lap, they may be expressing affection, trust, and a sense of closeness. It’s a way for your cat to say, “I feel safe with you,” and it strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
The behavior can also be an expression of joy. If your cat is kneading you while purring, they are probably content, relaxed, and enjoying their time with you.
6. Seeking Attention
In some cases, cats may knead to seek attention, especially if they are doing so while rubbing against you. If your cat is kneading and then nuzzling you, they may be asking for affection, petting, or simply wanting to get closer to you. This type of behavior is more commonly seen in cats who are particularly affectionate and social.
7. Stress Relief and Comfort
Cats that are feeling stressed, anxious, or upset might knead as a way of self-soothing. Much like how humans may tap their feet or engage in repetitive movements when stressed, cats may knead to calm their nerves. If a cat is nervous or unsure of their surroundings, you might notice them kneading to comfort themselves and regain a sense of security.
In this sense, kneading acts as a kind of coping mechanism that helps the cat deal with their emotions.
Is Kneading Normal for Cats?
Yes, kneading is a completely normal and natural behavior for cats. It’s often a sign of contentment, comfort, and affection. However, if your cat is kneading excessively or in a way that seems obsessive, it could be a sign of underlying anxiety or stress, and you may want to observe other changes in their behavior to rule out any health concerns.
In general, though, kneading is an endearing habit that is part of your cat’s personality. It’s a way for them to express feelings of trust and comfort and to bond with you, their favorite human.
What to Do if Your Cat Kneads on You
If you enjoy when your cat kneads on you, there’s no need to stop the behavior. It’s a sign that your cat feels safe, comfortable, and affectionate towards you. However, if your cat's kneading becomes painful (for example, if their claws dig into your skin), there are a few things you can do to make the experience more comfortable:
- Trim Your Cat's Claws: Regularly trimming your cat's claws can reduce the impact of kneading, preventing them from getting caught in fabric or scratching you.
- Provide Soft Bedding: Offer soft, cushy beds or blankets for your cat to knead on, which may prevent them from kneading on your lap or your furniture.
- Redirect Kneading: If your cat kneads too much on you or in an undesirable place, gently redirect them to a more appropriate surface, like a cat bed or soft blanket.
- Embrace the Bonding: If you don’t mind the kneading and find it enjoyable, simply let your cat express their affection. It's a form of bonding that many cat owners cherish.
Conclusion: Why Do Cats Make Biscuits?
Kneading, or "making biscuits," is a natural, instinctual behavior in cats that serves many purposes. Whether it's to comfort themselves, mark their territory, express affection, or simply prepare a comfortable resting place, kneading is a behavior deeply rooted in their feline nature. It’s a sign that your cat feels safe, relaxed, and connected to you.
While it’s a cute and sometimes humorous behavior to witness, it also serves as a reminder of how deeply cats rely on instinct, even in a domestic setting. So, the next time your cat starts making biscuits, you’ll know it’s more than just an adorable quirk—it’s a way for them to communicate love, trust, and comfort.