Have you noticed your cat perform kneading that looks like kneading dough with their front paws? This is usually done on soft surfaces like cushions, pillows, blankets, other pets and even people.
It is not exactly known why cats knead, but it is often hypothesized because of behaviors carried on from kitten hood. A kitten would knead around its mother’s teat to promote the flow of milk. Kneading simulates that sense of security around its environment and how content your cat is.
Another hypothesis is that kneading comes from a time before cats became domesticated animals. Kneading relates to patting down a patch of surface so they can rest or even give birth and is part of how your cat now settles down.
The next time someone asks you “Why Do Cats Knead?”, now you know the facts!
