Kneading - or 'making biscuits' as it is sometimes known - is uniquely feline behaviour. It is that thing they do when they push in and out with their paws, just like a baker kneading dough.
They always knead on a soft object like a cushion, a pile of laundry - or you! - and are usually contentedly purring as they carry out this rhythmic motion.
It is an instinctive action and is probably because as kittens they kneaded their mothers to stimulate the flow of milk. Cats find it comforting.
Another theory is that it goes back to the days when wild cats patted down tall vegetation like grass to make a soft bed to sleep on or to give birth.
Also, cats have scent glands in the soft pads on the bottoms of their paws. When they knead, some of their unique scent is released and serves as a territorial marker.
So when your cat is kneading your lap, he’s not only telling you he feels comfortable and secure, but he’s claiming you as his own.
My sassy, grumpy cat Toffee is also taking part in the A to Z Challenge. Take a look here: www.notsosweettoffee.com
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awww I love it when our kitties use us as a kneading surface! Have a lovely day! See you tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteLook forward my visits to your blog!
DeleteJezebel, our one remaining geriatric cat, seldom kneads but will reach out and rest one paw on me sometimes. It's really sweet. ~grin~ Stay safe, sane, sheltered, and supplied.
ReplyDeleteThat's lovely! You stay safe too.
DeleteMy mother could never figure out why her cat would do that while on her lap. Mystery solved.
ReplyDeleteGlad to solve the mystery!
ReplyDeleteI love it when my Sammy kneads my hair when we first go to bed.
ReplyDeleteAw, that is so sweet.
DeleteBear used to knead - but he stopped a couple years ago. I kind of miss it - especially on my back!
ReplyDeleteSmurgling is a word I heard for this behaviour and I love this word. Our one cat, Kaspar, will do this for over 10 minutes but in between his smurgling he place his but down and does this sex vibration of his lower area like he is screwing that part of the bed or couch and finally, he licks his you know what and then sleeps. It is truly weird.
ReplyDelete