The rhythmic, alternating push of a cat’s paws against a soft surface, affectionately called “making biscuits” or kneading, is a common and endearing feline behavior. This action is deeply rooted in a cat’s instinctual past and is often a sign of contentment and security. Kneading is a natural and complex expression of a cat’s emotional state that persists throughout their life.
Why Cats Knead
The act of kneading is primarily a leftover infant behavior, linked to a kitten’s earliest life experiences. When nursing, kittens instinctively press their paws against their mother’s mammary glands to stimulate milk flow. This action becomes associated with the release of endorphins, creating a powerful link between the paw motion, warmth, and contentment. Adult cats continue this action as a self-soothing mechanism, replicating that initial sense of security and relaxation.
Kneading is also a vestigial nesting behavior inherited from the wild ancestors of domestic cats. Wild felines would knead down grasses, leaves, or soft earth to create a comfortable, flattened area for rest. This ancestral drive explains why many cats will knead a surface immediately before settling down for a nap.
A third function of the behavior is territorial marking. Cats possess scent glands located between the pads of their paws, which release pheromones. When a cat kneads a surface, they deposit their unique scent. This pheromonal deposit serves as a non-aggressive way to signal ownership, claiming the item or person as part of their safe territory.
Tips for Encouraging Kneading
Encouraging this natural behavior involves creating an environment that maximizes a cat’s comfort and security. The first step is providing surfaces that appeal to their instinctive need for softness and pliability. Cats are most likely to knead on plush materials like thick wool blankets, fleece throws, or soft pillows, as these textures mimic the reassuring feel of their mother’s fur.
Timing is another influence, as kneading often occurs when a cat is relaxed and winding down. Encourage the behavior during quiet moments, such as when you are sitting calmly or just before bedtime. Placing a designated kneading blanket or cushion near you can help redirect the action to an appropriate surface.
Your reaction during kneading sessions is important for positive reinforcement. Since kneading is an expression of trust, maintain stillness and respond with gentle, affectionate petting. Soft verbal praise, such as a calming tone, reinforces the positive association without startling the cat. Never scold or punish a cat for kneading, as this is an instinctive action. Negative responses can confuse them, potentially leading to anxiety and excessive kneading.
The home atmosphere should be calm and predictable, as a stress-free environment promotes the contentment that leads to kneading. If you encourage the behavior on your lap, place a thick, soft barrier, such as a towel or small blanket, over your legs. This protects your skin while providing the necessary warmth and soft surface the cat seeks, keeping the experience comfortable for both of you.
Associated Behaviors
Kneading is frequently accompanied by other physical and vocal signs indicating deep relaxation. The most common accompanying behavior is purring, a low-frequency rumble created by the cat’s larynx muscles and diaphragm. Purring reinforces contentment and is closely linked to the release of endorphins that kneading also stimulates.
Some cats may also exhibit drooling or a trance-like expression during intense kneading sessions. These behaviors are remnants of the nursing reflex, indicating the cat is fully immersed in the primal comfort of the action.
A practical consideration for owners is the frequent extension of claws that occurs with the rhythmic movement. To manage this natural extension without discouraging the behavior, maintain a regular schedule for trimming the tips of the cat’s claws. Placing a thick blanket or towel over your lap provides a protective barrier, allowing the cat to express affection without causing discomfort.