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What Does It Mean When My Cat Kneads Me?

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  June 18th, 2025
Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock

Cats make wonderful companions - and sometimes, slightly mysterious ones too. One behavior that tends to puzzle (and delight) many cat owners is kneading. If your cat rhythmically presses their paws into your lap, a blanket, or even your belly, you’ve likely witnessed this adorable habit in action. Often nicknamed "making biscuits," kneading resembles the motion of kneading dough - and it’s as charming as it is curious.


But what does it actually mean when your cat kneads you? Let’s take a closer look.


It Starts in Kittenhood


Kneading begins as an instinctive behavior in kittens. When nursing, they knead their mother’s belly to help stimulate milk flow. This action becomes closely associated with comfort, warmth, and nourishment. While cats eventually outgrow nursing, many carry this kneading behavior into adulthood as a form of emotional expression.


So, when your grown cat kneads you, it’s often a throwback to kittenhood - a signal that they feel safe, content, and cared for, just like they did with their mom.


It’s a Sign of Affection


One of the most common interpretations of kneading is simple: love. If your cat curls up in your lap and starts kneading away - especially while purring, head-butting, or settling in for a nap - they’re expressing trust and affection. Think of it as a cat’s version of a hug or a cuddle.

In their own quiet way, they’re saying: “I feel good here. You’re my person.”


It’s About Marking Territory, Too


Cats have scent glands in their paws, and kneading releases a bit of that scent. When your cat kneads you, they’re not just getting cozy - they’re marking you as theirs. It’s their subtle, instinctive way of saying: “This human belongs to me.”


The same goes for kneading their favorite blanket or bed. It’s a comforting behavior that makes their environment feel familiar and secure.


It’s About Nesting and Comfort


In the wild, cats knead grass or leaves to make a soft spot to rest or give birth. While your housecat doesn’t need to make a nest, that primal behavior still sticks around. When they knead a blanket, pillow, or your lap, they’re fluffing up their “bed” to make it extra comfy before they curl up for a nap.


It’s ritualistic, soothing, and helps them feel calm, just like making the bed before turning in for the night.


What If It’s Uncomfortable?


While kneading is adorable, it can be a little painful if your cat’s claws are involved. Some cats get really enthusiastic with their paws, and may accidentally scratch your skin or snag clothing. If this becomes a problem, here’s what you can do:


  • Keep their nails trimmed regularly.
  • Place a thick blanket over your lap before they settle in.
  • Gently redirect them to a soft pillow or bed if needed.


Avoid scolding them - kneading is a deeply ingrained and comforting behavior. Instead, offer alternatives that let them keep the ritual without the ouch.


When to Worry


In most cases, kneading is completely normal and nothing to worry about. But if your cat kneads obsessively, seems agitated while doing it, or cries out during the process, it might be a sign of discomfort, anxiety, or even pain. If anything feels off, it’s worth bringing up with your veterinarian.


Final Thoughts


Kneading is one of the many endearing ways your cat connects with you. Whether it’s a show of affection, a comfort ritual, or a claim of ownership- consider it a sweet compliment. If your cat’s kneading you, you’re probably doing something right.


WOW
Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Cats are known for knocking things off shelves and getting themselves trapped in nooks and crannies, so if you have kitties, you need to cat-proof your home. That’s right, in addition to kitten-proofing your rooms, you need to consider how your adult cats could potentially hurt themselves, too.  

Neutering Kittens Early Doesn't Lead to Heavier Cats, Study Finds

Longer life expectancy, reduced aggressiveness, zero spaying at home, and prevention of diseases are just some of the benefits of spaying or neutering your cat. Nevertheless, many owners decide to postpone sterilizing their kittens because spayed/neutered cats tend to eat more and gain weight easily. Obesity is commonly listed as the main disadvantage of neutering or spaying cats. The good news is that a new study has found no greater risk of weight problems in adulthood in kittens neutered at four months old compared to kittens neutered at six months old. The study, published in Vet Records, analyzed over 2,000 clinical records relating to 584 pet cats. Data showed no difference in body condition score (BCS) and bodyweight of kittens neutered at four months old or under, and those neutered at five or six months old, as they reached adulthood and senior years. For this study, the researchers used data from the Bristol Cats study at the University of Bristol. This longitudinal study follows kittens registered at 16 weeks old throughout their lifespan. Researchers also discovered that male cats usually weigh more and have a higher body condition score than female cats at any given time. Female cats showed lower body weight and body condition scores in summer and autumn, while male cats maintained a more consistent body weight and body condition score throughout all seasons. This study aimed to investigate the health outcomes of cats neutered before reaching puberty. Since neutering is a known risk factor for obesity in adult cats, some veterinary professionals are concerned that neutering kittens at younger ages may increase their chance of becoming obese in adulthood. “This new study adds to a growing body of evidence that neutering cats at four months old does not compromise their welfare, while it also helps charities and vet practices alike to deal with the problem of feline over-population,” said Dr. Rae Foreman-Worsley, a feline welfare associate researcher for Cat Protection.“By neutering cats from four months old, the veterinary profession can help to significantly reduce the number of unplanned litters and potentially homeless cats. At a time when financial constraints and issues with capacity are facing both owners and vets, a move to neutering cats at four months old may be an effective way to manage cat populations.”Dr. Emily Blackwell, Senior Lecturer in Animal Behavior and Welfare, Director of Companion Animal Population Health, and Principal Investigator of the Bristol Cats study at Bristol Veterinary School, said, ”The Bristol Cat study collects information about the health, welfare, and behavior of cats across the UK. Data from Bristol Cats used in this research provides further evidence that neutering kittens at four months of age does not put them at greater risk of weight problems in adulthood than those neutered at six months.” “Neutering kittens at four months can be effective in preventing unwanted litters, and we are pleased to have helped to provide scientific evidence to inform neutering decisions,” Dr. Blackwell added. In light of these findings, researchers are now calling for more long-term studies to investigate the effects of pre-puberty neutering on adult cats’ weight. Neutering causes metabolic and hormonal changes in cats, leading to decreased energy expenditure and increased appetite. This can lead to weight gain and obesity if not properly managed. Veterinary professionals still consider neutering a risk factor for obesity in cats, but agree that more studies like this one are needed to better understand whether there is any link with neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How To Stop Your Cat From Catching Wildlife

(photo credit: Klimek Pavol / shutterstock.com)Those of us with indoor cats and a deck or backyard will almost certainly find it hard to curtail our feline’s natural desire to sit outside, take in some sun, and chase every leaf that blows or flutters. Mine are content to remain in their backyard and imagine they could actually catch the squirrels and birds that float in and out of their world. They couldn’t if they tried but the problem is, that once upon a time they could. And many cats are in fact stealthy hunters that can bring home their wildlife “catch” on a rather regular basis.It's disturbing for us, can impact the ecosystem that surrounds us, and is unnecessary for the cat given they have all the food they need, sitting in a nice little bowl beside the kitchen door. They’re not hunting out of hunger but out of sport.So, how do you prevent your cat from engaging in such predatory behavior? There are a couple of tricks that range from hampering their ability to catch prey to ensuring area wildlife is not made vulnerable to discouraging the cat’s need / desire to hunt and kill.Eliminate OpportunitiesBecause felines tend to be opportunistic hunters who will pursue anything that catches their eye, it helps to know how to avoid this type of meet-up. One of the most obvious ways to prevent such encounters is to understand how and when they’re most likely to occur.Spring and summer are prime prey seasons because baby birds are learning to fly and tend to flutter to the ground - where they’re now highly vulnerable. So, keep your cats indoors, on a leash, or consider using a cat enclosure or pen during these times of the year.Similarly, when light levels are low during early morning and early dusk, wildlife is vulnerable because that’s when rodents and birds tend to be outside of their nests or dens, actively searching for food. The lesson here? Schedule little FiFi’s outdoor jaunts to daylight hours when you can monitor activity.And when setting up bird feed stations, it’s recommended to keep them at least six to seven feet away from thick shrubbery where cats can hide and lay in wait. And, to invest in a no-spill bird feeder option that minimizes the seed spillover that causes birds to fly down to the ground to pick up bits and pieces.

How to Prepare Your Anxious Dog for Your Vacation

Vacations are fun for us, but they can be hard on our dogs, especially if they get anxious when routines change or you're not around. If your pup tends to get nervous, a little extra planning can make a big difference. By helping your dog feel safe and comfortable before you leave, you’ll make things easier for both of you. Here’s how to get your anxious dog ready for your time away.

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