Glossary Term: Kneading

Kneading is a common behavior seen in cats and other animals, such as bunnies and puppies. Kneading is a motion where the animal will repeatedly push their paws in and out, usually against a soft surface like a blanket or a person’s lap. This action is often accompanied by a soft purring.

Kneading is believed to be a behavior that is derived from a kitten’s instinctual behavior. When a kitten is first born, they will knead their mother’s belly in order to stimulate the production of milk. The same behavior is seen in adult cats and is thought to be a sign of contentment and comfort. This can be seen when cats knead their owners and then settle down for a nap.

Kneading may also be a sign of affection and attention seeking. Cats will often knead their owners as a way of showing their love and appreciation. The act of kneading can be soothing for both the cat and the owner, and it can help to create a strong bond between them.

Kneading is also believed to be a way for cats to mark their territory. Cats have scent glands on their paws and they use their kneading motion to spread their scent around an area. This scent marks the area as a safe place for them and can also be used to signal to other cats that the area is already claimed.

Kneading is an adorable behavior that cats display, and it can be an enjoyable experience for both the cat and the owner. It is important to remember that kneading can be uncomfortable at times, so it’s important to pay attention to your cat’s body language and to stop any kneading behavior if your cat seems distressed.