Cats engage in a myriad of behaviors when interacting with humans, including meowing, purring, face rubbing, and kneading. However, in this article on our site we will focus on the latter, and answer the question of why does my cat knead me
We will explain to you when they begin to carry out this behavior, what it is for and why they continue to maintain it over time. We will also mention some behaviors associated with it and curiosities that are worth knowing. If your cat does it with you, it is very likely that you will like the content, keep reading!
When do cats start kneading?
Cats start kneading in the neonatal period, that is, right after birth. They perform this instinctive behavior around their mother's nipples to stimulate the production of colostrum and, later, of breast milk How do they do it? They exert some pressure, while opening their fingers to extend their claws, which are retractable, and then close their fingers again.
The kitten puppies will continue to knead the mother's belly until the kittens are weaned, around three weeks of age, a gradual process in which the cat will begin to reject the kittens. at the same time that they will be increasingly interested in drinking water and consuming animal protein.
Why do cats knead dough?
There are multiple theories that can explain why my cat kneads me, however, in this article we wanted to select the ones with the greatest consensus:
1. Cats knead when they are happy
Although kneading, purring or meowing are considered behaviors typical of the first stages of the feline, the truth is that cats associate this behavior in a positive way, therefore, they continue doing it when they feelcomfortable and happy also in their adult stage. Therefore, it is a comforting behavior that suggests that the cat enjoys adequate physical and emotional well-being
two. Cats knead when they have an emotional bond
And why do cats knead people and not just other cats? It is important to point out that felines properly socialized with people enjoy human company, therefore, when they are in a context of relaxation and comfort with a individual they likeit is very likely that they will carry out the behavior of kneading as a way of showing affection. They can also do this with dogs and other domestic animals when well socialized, such as domestic rabbits or pigs.
3. Cats knead to rest better
You may have also observed this behavior in other contexts, when the feline is away from the company of other individuals. Then you are probably wondering why cats knead before bed. Once again we are faced with a instinctive behavior of the kind that pregnant cats usually carry out when preparing the nestfor your puppies.
However, it can also be done by non-pregnant males or females when they are on a surface that they do not consider completely comfortable. So if you've watched your cat knead a blanket or yourself, know that wants to feel more comfortable in that particular spot.
4. Cats knead to stretch
It is no secret that cats love to stretch each and every one of their body muscles, therefore, whether on top of you or on a sofa, the cat will take the opportunity to stretch after a pleasant time of rest, also kneading as a sign of satisfaction
5. Cats knead to mark with pheromones
Synthetic pheromones are becoming more and more popular to calm and generate well-being among cats, however, did you know that cats emit their own pheromones? That's right, these animals secrete chemical compounds through certain glands to communicate with other individuals of their species. It is very likely that if you have several cats, one of them decides to "mark" as part of his territory so that the others know that you are his "property". You can also firm it up by rubbing it with your cheeks, chin, lips, or whiskers.
What is a cat doing kneading?
If you've been wanting more, don't miss the following videos of cats waking up their owners while they knead them, you'll love them!
