Why Do Cats Knead? The Real Reason May Surprise You!
As a cat expert and proud cat owner, I’m often asked why cats knead. Is it a simple display of affection or do they have a deeper agenda? I’m here to shed some light on this question and as a, I might just make you laugh along the way.
First of all, let’s break down what kneading actually is. It’s when your cat rhythmically pushes in and out with their paws, alternating between left and right. When kittens nurse from their mothers, they knead to stimulate milk flow. But why do adult cats continue this behavior?
One theory is that it’s a leftover instinct from their kittenhood. When cats knead, they release endorphins, which makes them feel good. It’s possible that adult cats continue to knead because it reminds them of the comfort they felt nursing from their mother.
Another theory is that cats knead to mark their territory. Cats have scent glands in their paws that release pheromones when they knead. This communicates to other cats that this is their space, which is particularly important for outdoor cats.
But let’s be real, as much as we love our cats, they aren’t always the most logical creatures. My personal theory is that cats just like the feeling of kneading. I mean, who doesn’t love a good massage? And they get to use their claws without getting in trouble for scratching up the furniture. Win-win!
Now, I know what you’re all thinking. “But what about when they knead us? Why do they do that?” Well, when cats knead on their humans, they are essentially marking you as their own. They are saying “This is my human, and I am their cat.” It’s also a sign of affection and trust.
But let’s not forget the hilarity that can ensue when our furry friends get a little too into their kneading. Have you ever had a cat who kneads so aggressively that it feels like they’re actually trying to make bread dough? Or perhaps a cat who kneads on your hair while you’re trying to sleep? It can be both amusing and annoying at the same time.
At the end of the day, cats knead for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s an instinctual behavior, a way to mark territory, or simply because it feels good, we may never know for sure. But one thing is certain – we love our cats even when they’re kneading our stomachs at 4am.
