Why do cats knead their paws into people's stomachs? - briefly
Cats knead their paws into people's stomachs as a sign of affection and contentment. This behavior is often seen when they are happy or seeking comfort, similar to how kittens knead on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production.
Why do cats knead their paws into people's stomachs? - in detail
Cats are known for their unique and often endearing behaviors, one of which is their tendency to knead or "make biscuits" with their paws on various surfaces, including human stomachs. This behavior is deeply rooted in their instinctual nature and serves several purposes.
Firstly, kneading is a remnant of kittenhood. Newborn kittens knead on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production. The action mimics the suckling reflex, which helps the mother produce more milk to nourish her offspring. This behavior is often carried into adulthood as a comforting and soothing activity for cats. When they knead on a human's stomach, it can be seen as a sign of trust, comfort, and affection, similar to how they would with their mother or littermates.
Secondly, the act of kneading is also linked to marking territory. Cats have scent glands in their paws that release pheromones when they walk or knead on surfaces. By kneading on a human's stomach, cats are essentially leaving their scent as a way to claim ownership and mark their territory. This behavior is more common among intact male cats but can also be observed in spayed or neutered felines.
Lastly, kneading can be a way for cats to release pent-up energy and stress. The rhythmic motion of pressing their paws into a surface helps them relax and unwind. For many cats, the act of kneading is a form of self-soothing, similar to how humans might fidget or pace when feeling anxious. When they do this on a human's stomach, it can also serve as a bonding experience, strengthening the connection between the cat and their owner.
In summary, cats knead their paws into people's stomachs for a variety of reasons that stem from both instinctual needs and learned behaviors. It is an expression of trust, comfort, and affection, as well as a means of marking territory and releasing stress. Understanding this behavior can help cat owners better appreciate the complexities of feline communication and strengthen their bond with their pets.