Why Do Cats Make Biscuits On Me?

 
Kittens will massage the mother's breasts with their front paws while suckling to stimulate milk production. This behavior not only helps them obtain nutrition, but also brings a sense of security and comfort. In adulthood, cats may revert to knead when they feel relaxed, comfortable or safe, which usually occurs when they are ready to go to sleep, have just woken up from a nap, or are in the company of their owners. Cats generally use this behavior to express pleasure and as a way to seek attention or relieve stress.

Understanding Cat Kneading

Cat kneading, also known as "making biscuits," is a common and adorable behavior observed in domestic cats. This behavior involves the cat pushing their paws in and out against a soft surface, such as a blanket, cushion, or even their owner's lap. The rhythmic motion resembles the action of kneading dough, hence the name.

The Symptom of Cat Kneading

Kneading is a common behavior in cats, which usually manifests itself by gently stepping on or scratching and kneading soft surfaces with the front paws, and the action is accompanied by an expression of comfort and relaxation, and sometimes by making a purring sound.

Cat purring

The behavior of cats purring while cat making biscuit is a complex physiological phenomenon involving multiple biological mechanisms. When cats makes biscuits, they mimic the action of sucking on the mother cat's nipple when they are kittens, this is  a behavior that deeply rooted in their instincts. During this process, the cat's laryngeal muscles produce rapid contractions and relaxations, causing air to vibrate in the larynx, resulting in the characteristic purring sound.

The Cause of Cat Kneading

• Instinctual Behavior: Kittens knead their mother's belly to stimulate milk flow during nursing. This instinctual behavior often carries into adulthood, providing comfort and a sense of security.

• Marking Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they knead, they release pheromones, marking their territory. This is why cats often knead on their favorite humans or spots around the house.

• Comfort and Relaxation: Kneading can be a self-soothing behavior that helps cats relax. It's often seen when cats are in a comfortable and safe environment, like when they're settling down for a nap.

• Stretching and Exercise: Kneading helps cats stretch their muscles, especially after a long nap. It's a way for them to wake up their body and get some gentle exercise.

The Reasons Cats Retain The Habit of Kneadnig

Cat kneading is an instinctive behavior that kittens develop to stimulate milk production. Even if breast milk is no longer needed in adulthood, this behavioral pattern may have solidified into a habitual action for comfort and satisfaction.

• Cats seek security through this. It can give cats a sense of security because kitten kneading behavior is associated with being protected and fed by the mother cat. Cats may self-soothe by stepping on the milk when they feel nervous or upset. 
• When cats feel relaxed and happy, they may express this positive emotion by stepping on the milk. That is a expression for cats to express their emotions and is sometimes used to establish a close bond with humans or other animals.
• Cats have glands on the fleshy pads of their front paws that secrete odors. By stepping on the milk, cats may be marking their territory, indicating their ownership or belonging to an area.
• Cats may prepare for sleep by stepping on the milk before they are ready to go to sleep, an instinctive response to make the sleeping area more comfortable and secure by stepping on it.

How to Respond to Cat Kneading

If your cat kneads on you, it's a sign of affection and trust. However, it can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially if your cat has sharp claws. Here are some tips:

• Trim Your Cat's Claws: Regularly trimming your cat's claws can help prevent discomfort when they knead on you.

• Provide a Soft Blanket: Encourage your cat to knead on a soft blanket instead of directly on your skin,such as a blanket or soft cushion. This can create a cozy and comfortable kneading spot.

• Gently Redirect: If the kneading becomes too intense, gently redirect your cat to another surface or distract them with a toy.

• Keep quiet:  You should avoid talking loudly or making noise that could interrupt your cat's pleasurable experience.

Other Cat Body Language

Cats are known for their independent and mysterious nature, but they communicate a great deal through their body language. Understanding cat body language can help you better interpret your feline friend's feelings and needs, leading to a stronger bond and a happier pet.

1.Body Posture

(1)Arched Back

An arched back can signal fear or aggression, especially if the fur is standing on end. However, in a playful context, cats might arch their back and pounce around to initiate play.

(2)Crouched

A crouched position with the body close to the ground indicates fear, anxiety, or readiness to pounce. If accompanied by flattened ears and dilated pupils, your cat might be feeling threatened.

(3) Relaxed and Exposed Belly

A cat lying on its back with an exposed belly is showing trust and comfort. However, this doesn't always mean an invitation for belly rubs; many cats are sensitive in this area and might react defensively.

2.Vocalizations

While this article focuses on body language, vocalizations such as meows, purrs, hisses, and growls are also important aspects of cat communication. Combining vocal cues with body language can give you a more complete understanding of your cat's mood.

3.Tail

A tail held low or tucked between the legs can signify fear or submission. If your cat displays this body language, it's best to give them space and avoid forcing interaction.

Conclusion

Cat kneading is a fascinating behavior that provides insight into your cat's instincts and emotions. Understanding why cats knead can help you appreciate this endearing habit and strengthen the bond with your feline friend. Remember, when a cat kneads, it's often a sign of contentment and love. When cats make biscuits, they may purr along with it, which is a sound that indicates comfort and pleasure. Additionally, cat kneading can be a sign that your cat is looking for security or a way they use to mark territory, leaving their scent on items through scent glands on their paws. Therefore, if your cat is making biscuits on you or on a soft object, this is usually a positive sign that he trusts you and feels at ease in your company.