Why does a cat knead a blanket with its paws? - briefly
Cats knead blankets with their paws as a remnant of their kittenhood behavior, which they use to stimulate milk production in their mother. This action also serves to mark territory and express contentment in adult cats.
Why does a cat knead a blanket with its paws? - in detail
Cats exhibit a unique behavior known as "kneading" or "making biscuits," where they rhythmically push their paws in and out of soft surfaces like blankets, pillows, or even human laps. This action is deeply rooted in feline instinct and serves several purposes.
Firstly, kneading is a natural behavior that cats develop from kittenhood. Newborn kittens knead on their mother's belly to stimulate milk production, ensuring they get enough nourishment. This instinctive action continues into adulthood, even though adult cats no longer need milk for survival. When a cat kneads on a blanket or another soft surface, it is often a sign of contentment and comfort, reminiscent of the security and warmth they experienced as kittens.
Secondly, kneading can also be a form of marking territory. Cats have scent glands in their paws that release pheromones when they knead or scratch surfaces. These pheromones help cats mark their territory, leaving behind a subtle but distinctive scent that signals to other cats that the area is occupied. This territorial behavior can be particularly evident if the cat feels threatened or anxious about its environment.
Additionally, the act of kneading can serve as a stress-relieving mechanism for cats. When they are feeling anxious or unsettled, some cats may resort to kneading as a way to self-soothe and calm themselves down. The repetitive motion can have a therapeutic effect, similar to how humans might fidget or pace when they are nervous.
In summary, the action of a cat kneading a blanket with its paws is driven by a combination of instinctual behaviors from their kitten days, territorial marking, and stress relief. Understanding these underlying reasons can help pet owners provide better care and create a more comfortable environment for their feline companions.