Why Do Cats Pummel

If you're a cat owner, you've probably noticed your feline friend rhythmically pressing its paws against you or a soft surface, almost like kneading dough. This behavior, often referred to as "pummeling" or "kneading," is common in cats of all ages and breeds. But have you ever wondered why cats do it? This article delves into the reasons behind why cats pummel and what it reveals about their instincts and emotions.

What Does Pummeling Look Like?

When cats pummel, they press their paws into a soft surface, like a blanket, pillow, or even your lap, in an alternating motion. Their claws might extend slightly, and many cats will purr or close their eyes as they do this. It’s a unique and adorable trait that might look puzzling at first glance.

Why Do Cats Pummel?

• Behavioral habits of cats pummel

Cat‘s pummel is a common behavior that originates from the kitten's infancy. When kittens suckle on breast milk, they will use their front paws to gently press on the mother's breast to stimulate milk secretion, which is an instinctive behavior that helps them get more nutrition. As the cat grows, this behavior gradually evolves into a habit, and even in adulthood, cats will display the action of kneading when they feel relaxed, comfortable or safe.

• Physiological Reactions

Milk-stomping behavior is closely related to chemical reactions in the cat's body. When cats stomp on milk, their brains release endorphins, substances that bring about feelings of pleasure and relaxation. When cats are nervous or stressed, they use this to relieve themselves and feel more relaxed and comfortable. This explains why cats look so contented when they step on the milk .

• Territory marking

Scent glands are found on the soft pads at the base of a cat's paws. When a cat pummeling, some of its own distinctive odor is released onto the surface of the object being stepped on, a kind of territorial marking. So when a cat steps on its owner, it is not only telling you that the cat is comfortable and safe, but it is also declaring its sovereignty, a sign that it likes its owner.

• Expressing intimate feelings

Cats think of their owners as their “mother” or “father” and will express their dependence and affection as if they were breastfeeding on their nanny. Even cats that have never met their mothers will instinctively display this behavior. This may be related to feline genetic memory.

Overall, cats stomping on milk is a normal behavior and is usually their way of expressing intimate affection, relaxation, habitual behavior, or a form of self-soothing. If your cat does this regularly, then you can see it as a tacit understanding and intimate bond between you, as well as providing it with a greater sense of security and comfort.

Are there Any Other Signals When a Cat Pummel?

When a cat pummeling, in addition to the direct action of pummeling, it may be accompanied by other signals that can help the owner better understand the cat's emotions and needs. Here are some common accompanying signals:

1. Grunting

When cats pummel, they usually make a purring sound. This sound is produced by the rapid vibration of a cat's throat muscles and usually indicates that they are feeling relaxed and happy. Purring is a way for cats to express contentment and happiness, and is also a positive signal when they interact with their owners.

2. Body language

Cats may exhibit some specific body language when pummeling, for example:

Relaxed posture: the cat's body will become soft and the muscles loose, which indicates that they feel safe and comfortable in this environment.

The position of the tail: if the cat's tail is relaxed and not erect or wagging, this usually means they are in a relaxed state.

The state of the eyes: the cat's eyes may be half closed or completely closed, which is a sign that they feel relaxed and trusting.

3. Licking behavior

Some cats will lick their owner or surrounding objects at the same time when pummeling. This licking behavior is a way for cats to express intimacy and dependence, similar to the behavior of licking their mother cats when they are young. Licking helps cats release endorphins, a chemical that brings pleasure.

4. Friction behavior

Cats may rub their head or body against their owner or surrounding objects. This rubbing behavior is a way for cats to mark territory and express intimacy. Cats have scent glands on their head and body, and rubbing leaves their scent on objects, which is a way for them to assert their sovereignty and show affection.

5. Seeking attention

Cats may seek attention from their owners when pummeling, such as gently patting their owner with their paws or rubbing their head against their owner's hand. This behavior is a sign that the cat wants to be responded to and interacted with by the owner, and they may want the owner to pet them or give them some attention.

How to Respond When Cat Pummeling?

I. Give positive physical contact

• Gentle petting

You can use your hand to gently stroke the cat in the direction of its back and head. This gentle touch is similar to a mother cat's soothing touch to her kitten, which can make the cat feel comfortable and at ease. However, be careful to use a moderate amount of force to avoid scaring the cat or making it feel uncomfortable.

• Gently massage

Near the area where the cat is pummeling, use your fingers to gently make small massage movements. For example, when the cat pummeled on the owner's lap, you can gently massage around its paws, which will enhance the cat's pleasure.

II. Provide a comfortable environment

• Keep quiet

Minimize the noise interference around you, such as turning off the TV or putting your phone on silent mode. A quiet environment will allow the cat to continue the pummeling behavior in a more relaxed manner and enjoy the process.

• Adjust the temperature

If the ambient temperature is low, cover your cat with a small, soft blanket. The warm environment will make the cat feel more cozy and as warm and comfortable as when it is around the mother cat.

III. Use sound to express intimacy

• Speak softly

Speak to your cat in a gentle, soft tone. You can say some simple, intimate words, such as “little baby, so comfortable ah” and so on. The cat will be able to feel the gentleness in the owner's voice, which will enhance the sense of intimacy with the owner.

• Imitate purring

If possible, try to gently make a purring sound similar to that of a cat. This sound is a signal of friendliness and relaxation in cat communication and may make your cat happier to pummel.

Is There Any Way To Help Cats Reduce Stress?

I. Create a comfortable environment

• Safe space

Provide an exclusive safe space for your cat, like a warm, quiet and dimly lit nook. You can use a cardboard box with a soft blanket or cushion inside, which the cat is able to hide in and gain a sense of security when feeling stressed.

• Familiarize yourself with the layout

Keep the layout of the home environment relatively stable. Cats are used to familiar environments, and frequent changes in furniture placement, etc., will make them uneasy. Minimize unnecessary environmental changes.

II. Enrich interaction

• Gentle petting

Gently stroking your cat is a good way to reduce stress. You can start from the cat's head and slowly stroke it along the back to the root of the tail, with gentle and slow movements, so that the cat can feel the owner's love and care.

• Interactive games

Use toys such as teasing sticks and small balls to play interactive games with your cat. Arrange a certain amount of time to play with the cat every day, which can consume the cat's energy, while enhancing the emotional connection with the owner and effectively reducing stress.

III. Regulating Diet

• High-quality food

Provide nutritionally balanced, high-quality cat food. Adequate nutrition helps maintain the cat's physical and mental health. Choose cat food that is suitable for your cat's age and health condition, and make sure it contains sufficient nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals.

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• Moderate Snacks

Occasionally give your cat's favorite healthy snacks, such as freeze-dried chicken and cat strips. However, pay attention to controlling the amount to avoid over-reliance on snacks.  Moderate amount of snacks can bring pleasure to cats and play a certain role in reducing stress.

IV. Use of stress-reducing products

• Pheromone products

Use pheromone spray or diffuser. Pheromone is a chemical signaling substance similar to the cat's own secretion, which can create a reassuring atmosphere in the environment and help relieve the cat's stress.

• Catnip and its products

Catnip has a special effect on many cats. Catnip toys can be provided or a small amount of catnip can be sprinkled in the cat's activity area. Cats may become relaxed and happy after sniffing or touching catnip, thus reducing stress.

Related:What Does Catnip Do to Cats

V. Reduce stressors

• Avoid strangers and noise

Reduce visits from strangers in your home, as cats may be nervous about strangers. Also avoid creating excessive noise, such as turning down the TV and stereo and avoiding noisy electrical appliances.

• Harmony between pets

If you have more than one pet at home, make sure they live in harmony with each other. Observe the interactions between pets to prevent fights, bullying, etc., and avoid causing unnecessary stress to your cat.

Should You Be Concerned if Your Cat Pummels?

Pummeling is a completely natural and healthy behavior in cats. It’s generally a sign that they’re content and relaxed. However, if your cat is kneading with its claws out, it can be a bit uncomfortable or damaging to fabrics. To minimize any issues, consider placing a blanket or towel on your lap when your cat starts pummeling. You could also gently encourage your cat to knead in a designated area, like a soft bed or blanket.

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Conclusion

Cats pummel for a variety of reasons that stem from their instincts, emotions, and physical needs. Whether it’s a sign of comfort, territorial marking, a way to stretch, or simply a display of affection, this behavior is a unique and charming part of what makes cats so endearing to their owners. So next time your cat starts pummeling, you can smile, knowing it’s their way of showing they feel at home.

Also Read: Why Do Cats Knead And Bite The Blanket