If you’ve ever watched your cat rhythmically pressing their front paws into a soft surface, you’ve witnessed a behavior known as kneading—often lovingly called “making biscuits” or “bread-making.” While it looks like your furry friend is preparing dough, this quirky habit actually has deeper roots.
1. A Comforting Kitten Habit
Kneading starts in kittenhood. When nursing, kittens instinctively press their paws against their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. Even as adults, cats carry this behavior with them, using it as a soothing action that brings them comfort and security.
2. A Sign of Affection and Relaxation
When your cat kneads you, it’s usually a compliment! They associate you with warmth and safety, much like how they felt with their mother. It’s their way of saying, “I love you, and I feel safe with you.”
3. Marking Their Territory
Cats have scent glands in their paw pads. By kneading, they release pheromones onto the surface, essentially “claiming” it as their own. That cozy blanket, your lap, or even a pillow now officially belongs to them!
4. Preparing a Cozy Spot
In the wild, cats kneaded grass or leaves to create a soft, comfortable nesting spot before lying down. Domestic cats have kept this instinct, which is why they might knead before curling up for a nap.
5. Stress Relief
Kneading can also be a self-soothing behavior. Much like humans fidget or squeeze stress balls, cats knead to release tension and calm themselves.
Final Thoughts
So the next time you catch your cat “making biscuits,” remember—it’s not just cute, it’s meaningful. It’s a mix of instinct, comfort, and love. Whether on a blanket, a cushion, or your lap, kneading is your cat’s way of showing happiness and claiming their little piece of the world.
