Why do cats knead their owners with their paws while purring and extending their claws? - briefly
Cats knead with their paws as a sign of contentment and affection. This behavior is often accompanied by purring and extends their claws, which is instinctual from kittenhood when they would do this on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production.
Why do cats knead their owners with their paws while purring and extending their claws? - in detail
Cats exhibit a unique behavior of kneading or making biscuits, which often involves extending their claws and purring. This action is typically observed when cats are content, comfortable, or seeking attention from their owners. The origins of this behavior can be traced back to their instinctual needs as kittens.
Newborn kittens knead on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production and encourage nursing. This action helps kittens receive the nourishment they need for survival. As cats grow older, they continue to associate this behavior with comfort and security, often resorting to it as a means of self-soothing or expressing contentment.
When a cat kneads on their owner while purring, they are essentially showing trust and affection. The action of extending their claws is not typically an aggressive gesture but rather a natural extension of the kneading motion. However, owners should be cautious as even unintentionally, cats can cause discomfort or minor injuries with their sharp claws.
To mitigate any potential harm, it's advisable for cat owners to provide alternative surfaces for their cats to knead, such as soft blankets or designated scratching posts. This encourages the cat to direct their kneading behavior towards these items rather than their owner's skin. Additionally, regular nail trimming can help reduce the sharpness of a cat's claws, further minimizing any discomfort during the kneading process.
In conclusion, cats knead their owners as a display of affection and contentment, rooted in their natural instincts from kittenhood. While this behavior is endearing, owners should take precautions to ensure both the cat's well-being and their own comfort during these interactions.