Why do cats knead? An explanation of evolutionary behavior

Have you ever watched your cat “walk” in one place, using alternate paws to press down while in a deep trance state? This is called “kneading” and there are a number of reasons why cats engage in this seemingly bizarre behavior. Some cats like to knead on layers, blankets, or beds, while others like to knead on top of their owners. My friend’s cat would climb on his shoulder and start kneading. He thought it was the cat’s way of massaging his shoulder, but then he did some research and learned to reason why cats knead.

Kneading essentially appears to walk in place or crush grapes with your feet. A cat will perform this unusual behavior for a number of reasons. One of the most interesting and compelling explanations to amass is actually evolutionary in nature. Kittens will gently use their paws to knead their mother’s teat to stimulate milk flow. This action is then associated with the positive, reassuring and relaxing result of obtaining sustenance.

A cat can then enter a deeply relaxed, trance-like state. As the cat grows, he can knead any soft surface and, in doing so, enter the same “good place” that he experienced as a kitten. So you can hear her purr with satisfaction while she’s kneading. Another explanation is that cats knead to prepare a soft surface on which to eventually settle. He also seems to feel good in them and exercises his paws. However, if your cat still has sharp claws, the kneading exercise can be painful if you do it on your person.

Kneading is therapeutic for cats and they should be left alone while they perform this behavior. Your cat just wants to relax and rest, and if he gets involved in kneading your shoulder or lap, then he’s more comfortable with you and that’s always a good thing. There are other reasons for kneading that are just as interesting. Check out some helpful resources listed below.