Why Do Cats Make Biscuits? Kneading 101
Veterinarian
Cats kneading, also known as "making biscuits," is a familiar behavior to many owners — but have you ever wondered what makes your feline friend so fond of pushing their paws in and out on your lap, a blanket, or even a hard surface?
If so, you're in good company. "Why does my cat make biscuits on me? ” and "Should I be worried?" are common questions in the vet office. That's why, in today's article, we asked veterinarian Dr. Ricky Walther to explain everything there is to know about this bizarre cat behavior .
- Expressing Kitten Instincts
- Showing Affection
- Relaxing
- Releasing Endorphins
- Relieving Stress
- Stretching
- Nesting
- Spreading Scent (Marking Territory)
- Mating
- Going into Labor
10 Reasons Why Cats Make Biscuits
According to Dr. Walther, DVM there are several reasons behind cats making biscuits. Most situations are harmless, but some might warrant taking your cat to the vet.
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1. Expressing Kitten Instincts
Cats often knead as a leftover behavior from kittenhood . When kittens nurse, they knead their mother to stimulate milk flow.
Seeing kitties make biscuits is quite common — even after weaning — but it's not unusual for this instinctual action to carry over well into adulthood as a comforting behavior, as well.
2. Showing Affection
Cats may also knead to show affection, indicating they feel happy and friendly. When they make biscuits on you, they might be marking you as a safe and comforting presence in their lives, similar to how they would with their mother or their other favorite objects.
3. Relaxing
Kneading can be relaxing for cats at any age. Much like how humans might enjoy a repetitive, calming activity, cats may find the rhythmic motion to be soothing and help them settle down. It's often accompanied by purring and can look like your cat is in a trance.
4. Releasing Endorphins
Kneading can trigger the release of endorphins in cats' brains, or “feel-good” hormones which act like natural painkillers that promote feelings of well-being in a cat’s brain. 1
This can make the activity pleasurable and lead them to repeat it whenever they’re feeling content or in need of comfort (and may explain why kneading often looks so relaxing for cats.)
5. Relieving Stress
While kneading can be a sign of relaxation, some cats may also knead when they're feeling anxious or stressed, similar to how humans use stress balls to release tension.
If you notice your cat kneading excessively, it might be a sign that they're feeling uneasy. Anxiety is a common health issue in cats and there are ways to help your cat feel more calm and secure.
6. Stretching
Kneading involves a lot of stretching in cats' paws, legs, and back, helping them limber up and maintain muscle tone. Therefore, making biscuits offers cats a natural way to stay flexible and prepare for or unwind from physical activity.
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7. Nesting
Cats knead to create a soft, comfortable space for resting. This nesting behavior can be observed when they prepare a spot to sleep, ensuring it’s safe and cozy.
8. Spreading Scent (Marking Territory)
Kneading also enables cats to spread their scent from the glands in their paws, thereby marking their territory and communicating to other animals that this area is claimed.2
9. Mating
Kneading could be a sign of a cat in heat. Female cats might knead to signal their readiness to mate, as the action can be associated with the comfort they experienced as kittens.
10. Going into Labor
Pregnant cats might knead more frequently as they near labor. This behavior is part of nesting and preparing a safe place for their kittens.
Signs your cat may be pregnant: Look for changes in appetite, nesting behavior, and physical changes such as weight gain or enlarged nipples.
When to see a vet: If you notice unusual or excessive kneading, consult your vet. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of unexpected vet visits, ensuring your cat gets the care they need.
Questions & Answers
Is my cat happy when she makes biscuits?
In most cases, yes; kneading is often a sign of a content and happy cat. The behavior is usually accompanied by purring and relaxed body language.
Why does my cat knead me but not my husband?
Cats can form stronger bonds with certain individuals. Your cat might feel more comfortable or affectionate towards you, leading them to make biscuits on you more often.
Why does my cat make biscuits and bite the blanket?
This behavior can be a way for cats to comfort themselves, mimicking the actions of nursing. It can also be a sign of contentment and relaxation.
Wrapping Up
Kneading is a natural and common behavior in cats with roots in kittenhood. It can indicate various states such as relaxation, affection, or nesting. While generally harmless, excessive kneading can sometimes signal underlying health issues, so monitoring your cat’s behavior is important.
If you have concerns about your cat’s kneading or any other behavior, consulting a vet is always a good idea. Pet insurance can help manage the cost of vet visits, ensuring your feline friend stays healthy and happy.
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Veterinarian
Ricky Walther, DVM, is a small animal general practitioner in the greater Sacramento, California area. Realizing the positive financial and medical impact that pet insurance can provide for pet parents and the profession, he lends support and advice to companies like Pawlicy Advisor "The Pet Insurance Marketplace") that simplify the process of connecting with veterinary financing resources.
