If you're a cat lover, you've probably seen your feline friend lying on a soft blanket or curled up on your lap, rhythmically pressing their front paws in an alternating pattern. This adorable behavior, known as "kneading," looks like a baker kneading dough, hence the name.

During this process, cats often appear very relaxed, with half-closed eyes and ears laid back, sometimes accompanied by loud purring. Some cats may involuntarily extend and retract their claws, which is why you might feel a slight attack.

Why Do Adult Cats Still Knead?

Since kneading is initially for nursing, why do adult cats retain this "baby behavior"? Scientists have offered several heartwarming explanations:

- Comfort and Security: When cats feel particularly relaxed and safe, this action from their kittenhood reemerges unconsciously. Like how some people bite their nails or tap their legs when nervous, kneading is a self-soothing behavior for cats. It's believed that cats are recalling the warmth of being cared for by their mothers.

- Territorial Marking: Cats have special scent glands in their paw pads. When they knead, they leave their scent on surfaces. This is a gentle way of marking their territory, essentially saying, "This is my spot." If you notice your cat kneading on certain places like your pillow or favorite sofa, it's likely marking its scent.

- Nesting Instinct: Wild felines prepare their resting areas by trampling them down. This instinct is preserved in domestic cats, who knead to "tidy up" their resting spots for comfort.

- Expression of Affection: When a cat kneads on you, it's likely expressing closeness and trust. Veterinary behaviorists note that cats only perform this action on objects that make them feel completely safe, treating the owner as a "surrogate mother."

Which Cats Knead More Often?

While all cats knead, some do it more frequently:

Cats that spent longer with their mothers as kittens: These cats usually retain kneading behavior into adulthood.

- Cats with gentle and affectionate personalities: Shyer cats are less likely to display this behavior in front of their owners.

- Certain breeds: Larger, gentle breeds like Ragdolls and Maine Coons are more prone to kneading.

- Neutered cats: They tend to retain more juvenile behaviors.

It's important to note that if a cat that usually doesn't knead suddenly starts doing so frequently or with more force, it might be a sign of stress or anxiety. It's advisable to observe for other unusual behaviors.

How to Respond to Kneading?

When your cat starts kneading on you, here's how you can respond:

- Gentle Interaction: Gently pet its head and back, and speak to it in a calm voice.

- Provide a Soft Cushion: If the claws are uncomfortable, place a cushion on your lap.

- Avoid Sudden Interruption: This can confuse and upset the cat.

- Trim Nails: Regular trimming can prevent accidental scratches.

- Observe Closely: If the kneading is too forceful or frequent, check for any health issues.

- A special reminder: Never deliberately provoke this behavior just because it's cute. Let it happen naturally.

As the renowned animal behaviorist Temple Grandin said, "Animals don't express emotions with words like humans do, but their behaviors are the best emotional dictionaries." When your cat kneads on you, it's using the most primal way to tell you, "I feel safe and happy with you."

So, the next time you see your feline friend "making bread," give it a gentle response. After all, in this wary world, gaining the unconditional trust of a cat is truly a precious thing.