Why Do Cats Knead? Cat Experts Weigh In On What Compels Kitties to Scratch

When it comes to cats, there is plenty of unexplained feline behavior that as cat-lovers, we just simply accept—head bunting, face rubbing, staring at us with their mouths open like they could kill at any second, etc. But some things, we can make sense of! Kneading is one such cat behavior that can kinda, sorta be debunked. While we'll probably never know for sure why a cat kneads, cat experts most definitely agree on the feeling that causes cats to knead.

"Kneading—also known as making biscuits—on you is a sign that your cat is happy," Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM and Veterinary Consultant for doglab.com, explains to Parade. "This is something that they learn from when they were kittens. [It's] a sign of complete contentment in a cat."

In fact, kneading might just be one of the first behaviors a young kitten learns. After all, kneading is directly connected to the kitten's bond with their mother.

What Is Cat Kneading?

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), kneading is "an instinctive trait in cats, who often knead on a soft surface, such as a blanket, other cats, or your lap. It appears to be relaxing and soothing—many cats will purr contentedly, drift off into sleep, or simply zone out and enjoy the motion."

The act of cat kneading itself looks a lot like a human kneading dough. Cats repetitively dig their paws and pull them back up; they may also accompany their kneading with purring as well.

Related: Why Do Cats Purr?

Why Do Cats Knead?

Cats learn to knead at a very young age and most often, continue this behavior throughout their adult lives. In young life, kneading starts as a way to stimulate their mother's milk glands.

"From just a few days old, kittens will purr and knead the mother's mammary glands when suckling," Dr. Matthew McCarthy explains to Parade. "This kneading stimulates mom to produce milk for the kitten, and since food is love, little kitty is amazingly content."

Now that your cat is likely away from its mother, kneading means something a little different. (No, your cat kneading on you doesn't mean they're trying to get your milk glands going!).

"This kneading behavior and associated contentment is programmed into the kitten and carried forward into adulthood as a self-soothing behavior that cats do when they are relaxed," Dr. McCarthy continues. "Like one would enjoy a good book or nice glass of wine."

Generally, kneading is a good thing. It shows that your kitty is comfortable, content, and maybe—just maybe—even loves you and trusts you! Cats typically exhibit kneading behavior prior to napping, snuggling, or when their human is petting them.

But there's another reason that cats knead, too, and it may just have to do with marking their territory.

"Also, cats' paws are full of scent glands, and kneading behavior is a method of rubbing these scents all over you or whatever else they want to knead on," Dr. McCarthy explains. "This marking behavior essentially allows a cat to lay claim to these areas."

Related: 50 Funny Cat Puns

Is Cat Kneading a Sign of Mating?

Maybe? Most experts aren't really sure about this possible cause of kneading, though it definitely is a working theory. Most often, you'll see this kind of kneading in female cats, who may approach then purr, stretch, and knead. Typically, a female cat trying to mate will do this on their side.

However, the most obvious cat behavior that signifies a desire to mate is raising their pelvis (and tail) to the side.

Is My Cat's Kneading Normal?

Cat kneading is totally normal. If your cat is kneading frequently, it's a sign that your cat is in a good mood, so it's definitely a positive thing. Don't feel worried if your cat is kneading—simply pat yourself on the back for providing a comfortable, calming space that puts your cat at ease.

"Cats can knead for a variety of reasons. It is normal behavior but not all cats engage in this behavior," adds Dr. Crista Coppola, Ph.D., Certified Dog and Cat Behaviorist for SeniorTailWaggers.com. "Most cats that knead do it on soft objects (or people) and continue for a few minutes before settling down to rest. My own cat does this pretty consistently on super-soft fleece blankets just before she settles in for a nap. She also does it when she is settling into my lap to rest."

And as all animal lovers know, both cats and dogs are keen on stretching. In dogs, it's called downward or upward dog (yes—like the yoga moves of the same names!). With cats, kneading can be another form of stretching.

"Cats will knead in order to just stretch and limber up," Dr. McCarthy adds. "I heard Keyboard Cat was very fond of this before every performance."

Related: 50 Cat Jokes

When Cat Kneading Isn't Normal

In general, cat kneading is a good thing but if your kitty is causing trouble at home due to their kneading, there are a few things you can do to train them to knead on softer objects that won't get damaged.

"If your cat is damaging objects because they are kneading on them it is most likely because their front claws/nails are getting caught in the fabric and this pulls at the threads," Dr. Coppola explains. "The first tip would be to trim your cat's nails so that they are less likely to catch on the fabric. The second tip would be to provide a fabric they are less likely to catch on, like cotton."

Dr. Coppola adds, "Lastly, provide your cat with a special blanket that can be used just for them—the softer and fluffier the better!"

Next up, these are the 50 best gifts for cat-lovers.