Have you ever seen a cat pushing its paws in and out on a soft blanket, or maybe even on your lap? This is called kneading, and it's something that many cats love to do. But why do cats knead?
This isn't just a simple question. It's a look into what makes cats happy, and it can help us understand them better. Kneading could be about remembering being a kitten, changes in their bodies, showing what belongs to them, or just because they feel really good.
But what does kneading look like? Why do some cats get so into it that they even drool, or what some people call "smurgle"?
We've got the theories - five of them - and we're ready to share. Ready to learn more about why cats knead? Then let's start by understanding what kneading is, and then we'll talk about why they might do it.
So, What Does It Mean When Cats Knead?
Imagine your cat, feeling super relaxed, starts to push out its paws one after another. It might be on a cozy blanket, your favorite top, or even you! The cat keeps pressing its paws, almost as if it were preparing dough for baking bread! This is why some people call this behavior "making biscuits".
During kneading, cats often purr, sometimes really loudly! Their eyes might be shut or half-open, as they seem to be lost in their own world of comfort. Some cats even drool when they're kneading, a behavior some people call "smurgle".
Smurgle? What's That?
"Smurgle" is just another word some people use to talk about kneading, especially when cats get super into it and start drooling while they're kneading.
Here's what kneading can look like:
And this is Korin by our member @Korinmewmew:
Five Key Reasons Behind Your Cat's Kneading Behavior
We've got a few ideas about why cats knead. Here are five possible reasons for this special cat action.
Reason #1: Remembering When They Were Kittens
When kittens are still drinking milk from their mother, kneading helps them get more milk. This is because the kneading can make the mom cat's milk flow more easily.
As the kitten gets older, it might keep kneading because it brings back feelings of being cared for and loved.
Reason #2: Changes In Their Bodies
For cats that haven't been fixed, kneading can be a sign that they're ready to have babies. Cats in heat have lots of hormones that make them want to cuddle more. This is nature's way of making sure the female cat is ready to have babies with a male cat.
It's really important to get your cat fixed. It's not good for cats to go into heat all the time unless they actually have babies. And there are already so many cats who need good homes. Responsible cat owners always get their cats fixed.
Read more: Why You Should Spay And Neuter Your Cats
Reason #3: Getting Ready To Sleep
Just like dogs go around in circles before they lay down, cats often knead to make a comfy spot to sleep. But unlike dogs, cats might not always lie down in the spot they just made. Only the cat knows why!
Kneading can be a way for cats to stretch their muscles or calm themselves down before a nap. It can also be a trick to make you stay seated instead of getting up to grab snacks during the TV break!
Reason #4: Showing What's Theirs - Marking Territory
Cats have special smell glands in their paws. When they knead, they leave a little bit of their smell behind. This lets other cats know, “This is MY spot.” It's like a little compliment from your cat to you!
Reason #5: Just Feeling Really Happy
If a cat is stressed, it won't knead. So when you see your cat starting to knead, you can feel good knowing your cat is feeling good.
No matter why your cat is kneading, remember that they only do it when they're feeling safe, relaxed, and showing love. It's a cat's way of giving a compliment!
Just remember: If your cat likes to knead on you, it's a good idea to keep their nails trimmed. Some cats can get a little bit too excited when they're kneading!
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Not Every Cat Kneads: Why Not?
Just like humans, cats too are unique, each with their own personality quirks. One such quirk? Kneading! But here's an interesting fact - not every cat kneads. Surprised? It's true!
Just like some of us prefer a quiet night in and others can't resist a lively party, some cats naturally knead while others simply don't. It could be down to their individual personality, past experiences, or who knows what else - the feline mind is a mystery after all!
Unique Kneading Styles: Your Cat's Technique
Now, for the cats who do indulge in this fascinating behavior, they each have their own unique style. Yup, you heard that right. Just as there are countless ways to scratch a post, there are also different kneading techniques in the world of cats.
Some furballs keep their claws tucked away, preferring a gentler knead, while others bring out the full artillery using all four paws. Imagine if our cats started a kneading competition – wouldn't that be a sight!
Regardless of their chosen method, one thing is clear: kneading is a significant part of a cat's life. And it's just another reason why we find these enigmatic creatures so utterly captivating.
Why Does Your Cat Knead You?
When your cat sits on you and starts moving their paws in and out, they're showing they like you. It's something kittens do when they're little and drinking milk from their mom. So when your cat does this to you, they're telling you, "I trust you, you make me feel safe."
Just a heads up, though. When your cat is very happy, they might push harder with their paws. This can hurt a bit because of their sharp nails. But remember, your cat doesn't know this can be painful. To keep from getting hurt, you could put a thick, soft cloth between you and your cat, or make sure to trim your cat's nails regularly.
When your cat pushes its paws on you, they're showing you they care. They're telling you, "You're my favorite, and I love you!" And that's a lovely thing to know for all cat owners.
The Hilarious Cat Learning To Knead Dough From A YouTube Video
Talk about a laugh! In this side-splitting YouTube video titled ">"Cat learns to knead dough through tutorial video", a cat appears to learn how to knead dough by watching a baking tutorial.
As the baking guide shows how to turn, fold, and push the dough, our kitty seems to follow along with great interest. The sight of this cat imitating the kneading action on screen is just too funny! This video proves that not only humans find cooking shows useful - cats might too, in their own hilarious ways!
Making Biscuits With Your Cat
In summary, cat kneading is a heartwarming expression of their comfort, contentment, and even an indication of their affection towards you. While some cats may choose not to partake in this bakery-themed behavior, those that do each have their own style, ranging from a gentle pat to an enthusiastic four-paw knead.
Remember, it's not only about them making biscuits but also about making bonds. When your cat kneads you, it's a sign of trust and adoration – a real knead-to-know basis for feline-human relationships!
So, if you're the lucky owner of a cat that kneads, consider keeping their nails trimmed to ensure these loving moments remain comfortable for both of you. And remember to simply enjoy these kneading sessions as part of the unique language of love that your cat shares with you.
So here's to cats and their bread-making skills – who kneads a bakery when we have our feline friends!
Some article images submitted by members of TheCatsite.com.
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