Why do cats knead? Is it a sign of affection? PDSA vet nurse Shauna Walsh explains <\/p>
Kneading is the back and forth motion a cat does when they alternate lifting their paws up and down against something, says PDSA<\/a> veterinary nurse Shauna Walsh. This is usually against something soft, such as a blanket, sofa, or even a person\u2019s lap. It’s sometimes fondly referred to as \u2018making biscuits\u2019. <\/p> Individual cats will knead differently, some gently rhythmically lifting and placing their paws, whereas some like to use their claws too \u2013 digging claws in as they knead.<\/p> Anyone who knows cats will have experienced it, when a cat will come and sit on your lap and knead your legs. It isn\u2019t necessarily the most pleasant feeling on human skin when cats knead with their claws, however, it is often a real honour for a cat to want to knead on you, claws or not.<\/p> Read more cat advice<\/strong><\/p> Kneading is an instinctual, natural behaviour and begins when kittens are dependent on their mother for food \u2013 they will knead on their mother’s stomach while feeding from their teat, as it helps to stimulate milk flow.<\/p> Why they continue to knead when they get older is a bit of a mystery, but it is commonly associated with positive emotions. Perhaps they knead because it feels good and is a relaxing motion for cats.\u00a0<\/p> There are some views cats continue to knead on their \u2018favourite\u2019 people as they associate kneading with positive feelings of contentment they used to have towards their mum, and they want to share them with you. Cats have scent glands between their toes, meaning that when they knead, their scent is released on to that surface to mark their territory.\u00a0<\/p> Another theory is that pet cats inherited this behaviour from their wild feline ancestors, as wild cats will sometimes knead their bedding materials to make them more comfortable as they prepare for rest. We also see pet cats do this on their beds and blankets.<\/p> Although the underlying reasons cats knead are not completely understood, it is normal behaviour for them. However, an increase in this behaviour could mean your cat is feeling worried and is trying to soothe themselves. If you notice your cat is kneading more than usual, speak with your vet.<\/p> Love cats? Check out our\u00a0pets<\/a>\u00a0section for advice on cat care, from\u00a0How to take your cat to the vet without stress<\/a>\u00a0to\u00a0<\/strong>how to get rid of fleas<\/strong><\/a><\/p> About the PDSA<\/strong><\/p>Why do cats knead<\/h2>