Caring For Your Cat / Why Do Cats Knead?
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Why Do Cats Knead?

Why Do Cats Knead? With Rory the Vet
Why Do Cats Knead? With Rory the Vet

‘Kneading’, ‘making biscuits’, ‘playing the piano’, or whatever you want to call it, is a natural behaviour for our feline friends and completely normal – most cat parents will have experienced it, although you may wonder why exactly they do it. So, let’s get into it! We asked pet expert Rory the Vet to answer: why do cats knead?


MEET RORY THE VET

We’ve partnered up with animal whisperer and renowned veterinarian, Dr Rory Cowlam, to share his wisdom when it comes to all things furry. And boy, does this man know his stuff.
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet.

Follow him on Instagram


Picture of Rory the Vet

MEET RORY THE VET

We’ve partnered up with animal whisperer and renowned veterinarian, Dr Rory Cowlam, to share his wisdom when it comes to all things furry. And boy, does this man know his stuff.
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet..

Follow him on Instagram

What is cat kneading?​​

Kneading is a behaviour cats do that involves repeatedly pushing their paws and claws into a soft surface, usually while purring, sometimes while drooling. The motion is similar to kneading dough, hence why people sometimes refer to kneading as ‘biscuit making’ or as a ‘biscuit factory’. The soft surface can be a blanket, pillow, clothing when they are sitting in your lap, or even the air. It’s perfectly normal and usually a positive signal that your kitty is content or happy. You do not need to correct this behaviour, unless their sharp claws are causing damage or injury.


a cat sitting on a kitchen table
a cat sitting on a kitchen table

Cats who knead: what’s it all about?​​

Kneading is an inherited action from kittenhood, when they were dependent on their mother for milk. Kittens knead their mother’s stomach to promote the flow of milk through the teat. Some cats who knead may also dribble, because it reminds them of the milk they would receive from this activity.


There are various reasons why your cat might knead as an adult. They include the following:


They enjoy it

I always interpret kneading as a compliment. It is the sign of a content cat, experiencing pleasure and comfort in the same way they would when kneading their mother’s stomach.


They’re making a nest​​

Why do cats knead blankets? Kneading can be your cat's way of preparing their bed before they settle down for a catnap. Some believe that this derives from wild cat ancestors, who would paw at grass to make space to rest. We also see some cat-mums do this when they are seeking a place to give birth.


It’s just a habit​​

Kneading can also just simply be a habit they have continued since kittenhood, which happens whenever they encounter soft textures that may remind them of their mother’s fur.


They’re marking their territory

This is the leading theory behind kneading and the one I subscribe to the most. Cats have scent glands that are activated during the kneading action, which deposits their scent and informs other cats that this area is their territory.


They’re showing love

This behaviour can also be a sign of affection and again a throwback to when they were a kitten and would knead their mother. By kneading you, they’re signalling that they feel secure and loved. Adorable, but it also can be a little painful. Just watch out for those claws!


Should you stop your cat from kneading?

Kneading is nothing to worry about, unless it is causing harm or destruction. In these instances, there are a couple of things you can do. For instance, ensuring your cat has access to scratching posts should help file their claws down. If your kitty is ruining furniture or soft surfaces, you can take these objects to an area they can no longer reach. And if your cat is too enthusiastic a kneader and is hurting you, you can place an old blanket in between you and, for instance, your legs to avoid contact with their claws.


Rory the vet with a cat
Rory the vet with a cat

Talk to your vet

To conclude, kneading should be seen as a lovely bonding moment between your furry friend and you. For any further queries or guidance needed around your cat’s kneading, please consult with your veterinarian. If you need more information on deciphering your cat’s behaviour, you can also head here. Happy kneading!





The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.

Published on 24/01/2025

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