Kneading behavior begins early in a cat’s life. When kittens nurse, they knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow, releasing calming hormones and providing comfort. Experts suggest that adult cats continue to knead as a way to re-create that sense of relaxation. Here are other possible reasons behind this behavior:
- Seeking Comfort: In the wild, cats knead grass to make a cozy resting spot. Similarly, domestic cats knead soft items to prepare a comfortable space before lying down.
- Displaying Affection: Cats may knead their favorite humans or animals to show affection, a behavior they carried over from kittenhood.
- Marking Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws, and kneading helps them leave a familiar scent on favorite spots, bedding, or people—essentially marking them as “theirs.”
When Should You Be Concerned About Kneading?
While kneading is generally normal, a sudden change in your cat’s kneading behavior can signal a problem. Increased kneading may indicate stress or pain, while a decrease could mean that your cat feels unwell. If you notice any significant shift, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.
Managing Problematic Kneading
Kneading can be endearing, but it can also become a problem if it leads to scratched furniture or minor injuries from sharp claws. To prevent damage while allowing your cat to express this natural behavior, try the following:
- Redirect to a Designated Blanket: Pick a soft blanket and encourage your cat to use it as their kneading surface. If they start kneading an area you’d rather protect, guide them to this blanket.
- Protect Yourself: Keep a thick blanket handy for when your cat seeks lap time, helping to shield yourself from any unintended scratches.
- Trim Nails Regularly: Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed will prevent sharp points that could snag on furniture or skin. Additionally, scratching posts can redirect some of their energy away from kneading onto a different activity.
- Consider Calming Aids: Products like the Feliway pheromone diffuser can help create a calm environment, potentially reducing the frequency of kneading.
Supporting Natural Instincts for a Happy Cat
While some feline behaviors remain a mystery, kneading is widely recognized as a natural and healthy behavior for cats. Allowing your cat to engage in kneading while managing it in a non-destructive way is key to their happiness. If you’re concerned about your cat’s kneading or other behaviors, contact your veterinarian for advice and support.