Why do cats knead clothes with their paws? - briefly
Cats knead clothes with their paws as a way of marking their territory. This behavior is instinctual and reminiscent of kittenhood when they would knead on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production.
Why do cats knead clothes with their paws? - in detail
Cats are known for their unique and often peculiar behaviors, one of which is kneading or "making biscuits" with their paws on various surfaces, including clothing. This behavior is rooted in several instinctual drives that date back to their ancestral origins as wild cats.
Firstly, kneading is a remnant of the nursing behavior observed in kittens. Newborn kittens knead their mother's belly to stimulate milk production and flow. As they grow older, this action becomes associated with comfort and security, leading adult cats to continue the behavior on soft surfaces such as blankets, pillows, or clothing that resemble their mother's fur.
Additionally, kneading is a form of marking territory. Cats have scent glands on the pads of their paws, which release pheromones when they walk or knead. By doing this on your clothes or other items, cats are essentially marking these objects as part of their territory, signaling to other animals that this area is under their domain.
Another reason for this behavior could be stress relief or anxiety reduction. Kneading can be a calming activity for cats, similar to how humans might fidget with a pen during a tense meeting. It helps them relax and feel more at ease in their environment. If you notice your cat kneading on your clothes while you're nearby, it could also be a sign of affection or a way for them to bond with you.
Lastly, cats may knead as a means of investigating new objects or surfaces. Their paws are sensitive and contain numerous nerve endings that help them gather information about their surroundings. By kneading on different textures, cats can explore and learn more about the world around them.
In conclusion, while it might seem like an odd habit to human observers, cat kneading is a deeply ingrained behavior driven by instincts related to nursing, territory marking, stress relief, and exploration. Understanding these underlying reasons can provide insight into your feline companion's natural behaviors and help strengthen the bond between you both.