Why Does My Cat Knead? Meaning Behind This Behavior

If you own a cat, you will most likely have experienced this behaviour. It involves your cat sitting on your lap, a soft blanket and/or chest. They will then start to use their front paws to push into whatever they are sitting on. It can look quite strange to start with, although some people refer to this as making biscuits.

I have owned cats for a while and almost all of them have this behaviour. Some of them do it a lot, whilst others do it occasionally. Mostly this is a positive behaviour and usually indicates that they are relaxed.

Why do cats do this?

There isn’t just one reason why cats do this, however there are a few reasons that are clear.

This behaviour is started when cats are very young. Kittens will often push their paws into their mother’s stomach whilst feeding. This can help encourage the milk to come through. Adult cats will often do this too, which can make them feel safe and relaxed.

Many cats will do this when they are happy and relaxed. You will notice this behaviour a lot more when they are sat on your lap, favourite blanket or soft bed. This is one of the clearest signs that they are feeling safe in that place with you. I have had some cats who will only knead certain people in the house.

Some cats will also do this to mark their territory. Cats have glands in their paws, so by pushing their paws into something they are leaving their scent behind. This means they are marking their territory. Whilst you won’t be able to smell it, other cats will.

This can be a way to help them relax before sleeping. Similar to how some people may move their pillow or blanket around. The repetitive movement seems to help them relax.

Sometimes cats will do this more when they are feeling slightly stressed. I have had some cats that have become more intense with their kneading when they are a bit excited and then all of a sudden stop and walk off.

Is this normal?

Yes! Most cats will do this at some stage. Some do it everyday and some do it occasionally.

Some cats will do it almost every time they sit on someone, and others very rarely. Neither are a problem. It is just a way they express themselves. Some are just more ‘kneady’ than others, just like some dogs can be more vocal.

Kittens will usually do this more than adults. Older cats can sometimes do this less or more slowly. This is common with age and usually isn’t a problem.

When to be concerned?

Kneading is almost always fine. However if they are doing it too much or alongside other behaviours,

You may want to be concerned if;

They are doing it too much and causing damage to furniture/blankets/skin.
They have suddenly started to do it a lot more and other behaviours have changed.
They are becoming restless after kneading.
They are only kneading one area (this can sometimes indicate discomfort).

If they are constantly kneading and also not eating well, hiding more, grooming less or generally seem uncomfortable, it would be a good idea to mention to your vet. Kneading alone usually isn’t a sign of illness.

What can you do?

Most of the time there is nothing you can do. If they are doing it gently and seem happy, let them do it. It is natural.

The main issue for many owners is the claws. If their claws are digging in and causing pain there are a few simple solutions. Try having a thick blanket/towel to hand and gently move them onto this when they start to do it. Some people will purchase a special soft mat. Keeping their claws trimmed regularly will also help a lot. Even trimming them every couple of weeks will make a big difference.

Don’t reprimand them. Shouting or pushing them away can make them feel less relaxed with you. Try to divert their attention. If you consistently give them a soft surface to knead, many will learn to favour this over your skin or sofa.

Some cats will do this more if they are bored. Adding extra play sessions throughout the day can help reduce excessive kneading. A tired cat will usually be less intense with everything.

Male and female cats?

Not really. Both male and female cats will knead. Neutered/spayed cats will also do this. In most cases this behaviour has little to do with their gender or hormones. Their personality will play a bigger role.

Final Thoughts

Cats will knead because it feels nice! It is often associated with feeling safe and relaxed. The behaviour is started when they are kittens and will often continue throughout their lives.

If they are doing this on you or favourite areas it is usually a positive behaviour. If their claws are causing issues try to manage this. Provide them with soft surfaces where needed. Overall just let them do it, it is one of the clearer signs that they are relaxed with you.

Note: This is based on common cat behaviour and my own experiences with cats over the years. This is not professional veterinary advice. If their behaviour suddenly changes and they are displaying other symptoms please consult your vet.

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