Why Does My Cat Knead? Exploring This Adorable Behavior

March 10th, 2025

You’re settled in for a cozy evening, and suddenly, your furry feline friend is determined to turn your lap into a sourdough loaf. That soft, rhythmic kneading, or “making biscuits” motion, is rooted in instinct and communication. Our team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital is here to shed light on this charming behavior.

Cat Kneading: Your Feline Habits Explained

Kneading is a rhythmic motion cats make with their front paws, pushing in and out against a soft object. Your furry companion may be in a trance-like state, almost glazed over. Here is a look at some of the reasons your cat may be displaying this peculiar behavior:

It’s in Their Instinct: Kneading is an instinctive behavior that starts from birth. Kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow, ensuring they get the nourishment they need. As adult cats, kneading often occurs when they are feeling happy, relaxed, and content, a reminder of the soothing comfort of those early days.

Marking Their Territory: Cats have scent glands in the soft pads on the bottoms of their paws. When they knead, these glands release pheromones, marking their territory with their unique scent. If your cat kneads your lap, they’re claiming you as their own, a sweet gesture from your furry feline companion.

Preparing a Resting Spot: Before lying down to rest, cats in the wild knead and pat down grass, leaves, or dirt to create a soft, comfortable area. Similarly, domestic cats often knead onto cushions, beds, other cozy spots, or even your lap in preparation for curling up for a nap.

Feeling Relaxed and Happy: Cats sometimes knead as a sign of sheer joy and delight. If your feline friend kneads while purring loudly, it’s their way of telling you, “I’m incredibly happy right now.”

Expressing Affection: When your cat kneads your lap or arms, it’s a sign of affection and bonding. Your furry companion is expressing love and comfort in your presence. So, if your cat isn’t into snuggles and kisses, take kneading as a way of telling you that you’re an absolute favorite.

Stress Relief: Cats often need to self-soothe or relieve stress or anxiety. The rhythmic motion has a calming effect, similar to how humans fidget when they’re feeling anxious. Kneading can also help cats stretch their muscles and ease tension, often after long periods of rest.

Dopamine Release: Kneading can trigger the release of the “feel good” chemical dopamine in kittens, leaving them feeling content and secure. This effect continues into adulthood, allowing older cats to re-experience these comforting sensations.

What Does It Mean for Cat Owners?

Kneading is a natural behavior for cats, so it’s important to provide a comfortable environment where your feline friend feels loved and secure. Here are some tips:

Provide Soft Surfaces: Make sure your feline companion has access to a soft, comfortable retreat where they can relax and knead all they want.
Monitor the Claws: The last thing you want is those sharp claws digging in your lap while kneading, so don’t forget to trim them regularly.
Establish Boundaries: If your cat’s kneading becomes too vigorous or uncomfortable, gently redirect their activity to a soft blanket or a cat bed.
Watch for Changes: If kneading becomes excessive or is combined with other signs of distress, it may indicate self-soothing to relieve pain or stress due to underlying medical or behavioral conditions.

Comprehensive Cat Care in Kirkland, WA

If you notice excessive kneading accompanied by changes in your cat’s behavior, contact All About Cats Veterinary Hospital to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team will evaluate your furry friend to rule out any underlying health concerns. You can always count on our team for compassionate care because, after all, we are all about cats!