It’s a familiar sight to any cat lover: your feline friend jumps onto a soft blanket, a plush pillow, or even your lap, and begins a rhythmic motion, pushing their paws in and out, alternating left and right. This adorable behavior, often accompanied by a deep, rumbling purr, is affectionately known as “making biscuits.” But why do cats do it? What is the purpose of this seemingly instinctive ritual? The answer is a fascinating blend of biology, comfort, and communication.
Above: A cat demonstrates the classic “making biscuits” behavior on a soft blanket.
A Throwback to Kittenhood
The most widely accepted theory is that kneading is a remnant of a cat’s kittenhood. As newborns, kittens knead their mother’s belly while nursing. The rhythmic pressure stimulates the flow of milk, ensuring they get the nourishment they need. This action is powerfully associated with the comfort, warmth, and safety of their mother.
When an adult cat kneads, they are essentially revisiting this state of contentment. The soft texture of a blanket or your lap can trigger this deep-seated memory, causing them to revert to this comforting kitten behavior. It’s a sign that your cat is feeling incredibly relaxed, safe, and happy.
Marking Their Territory
Another fascinating aspect of kneading is its role in territorial marking. Cats have scent glands located between the pads of their paws. When they knead an object, they are depositing their unique scent onto it. This is a subtle but effective way for a cat to say, “This is mine.”
This behavior is often why cats will knead their favorite sleeping spots, like a particular cushion or blanket. It’s their way of making the area smell familiar and comforting, further establishing their sense of security in their environment.
Kneading on You: The Ultimate Compliment
It’s one thing when your cat kneads a blanket, but what about when they choose your lap, stomach, or even your chest? This is considered a huge compliment! When a cat kneads you, they are not only expressing their comfort but also marking you as their own.
Above: A cat kneads its owner’s lap, a sign of affection and trust.
By kneading you, your cat is saying they feel as safe and secure with you as they did with their mother. They are also, in their own way, claiming you as a member of their family. So, the next time your cat decides to make biscuits on your lap, even if their claws are a little sharp, take it as a sign of their deep affection and trust.
Other Reasons for Kneading
While kittenhood and territory are the primary reasons, there are a few other theories about why cats knead:
– Creating a Soft Spot: In the wild, cats’ ancestors would knead tall grass or leaves to create a soft, comfortable, and hidden place to sleep or give birth. This instinct may still be present in our domestic cats.
– Stretching: Kneading can also be a way for cats to stretch their muscles. The action extends their paws and toes, which can feel good after a long nap.
– In Heat: Female cats that are not spayed may knead more frequently when they are in heat. This is often accompanied by other behaviors like yowling and increased affection.
Conclusion
Whether they’re preparing a soft spot for a nap, marking their favorite blanket with their scent, or simply expressing their love for you, kneading is a natural and instinctual behavior for cats. It’s a sign of a happy, contented, and secure feline. So, the next time you see your cat “making biscuits,” you can appreciate it as a heartwarming display of their comfort and affection.
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