Why Is Your Cat Making Biscuits (Kneading)?

Cat kneading on blanket
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Written by Shaunice Lewis

Published: January 23, 2025

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You have probably wondered about your cat’s intriguing practice of kneading, or “making biscuits,” on a soft blanket. Why do they do this? Are they trying to find a comfortable spot to rest? Are they showing affection? Read on to find out more about this common behavior.

What Is Kneading?

Kneading is sometimes referred to as “making biscuits” because it looks like the cat is kneading biscuit dough. The cat pushes their front paws down on a blanket or other soft object, alternating paws. Each push of the alternating paw is accompanied by a grasping motion with the claws. It looks a little like they’re giving the blanket a massage. Cats typically only knead soft surfaces such as a blanket, pillow, carpet, couch, or their owners. However, some cats reflexively “march” on a hard surface instead.

Not every cat will demonstrate kneading behavior, but it is common in cats of all ages. Some cats will knead and purr while being petted, while at other times they do it by themselves for no apparent reason. The action can even differ slightly from cat to cat. Some may not use their claws while kneading, and others may use all four paws instead of just the front two.

cat making biscuits
Cats typically prefer soft surfaces for kneading, but some cats will knead on hard surfaces as well.

Why Do Cats Knead?

Cats start to knead when they are kittens. A newborn will instinctively knead against its mother in order to help stimulate milk production. This inclination is there to ensure the kitten gets enough nourishment to survive. So, if they do it when they’re nursing, why do adult cats still knead?

Comfort

Adult cats can be found kneading blankets, stuffed toys, or any soft object around the house. However, they aren’t looking for milk. They associate the motion of kneading with the feelings of comfort and safety from their earliest days.

Showing Affection

Experts believe that kneading may be transferring behavior to the owner that used to be directed toward the cat’s mother. So kneading is a way of showing affection. It also helps to create a bond between a cat and its favorite person.

Getting a Good Stretch

Cats also knead to give their muscles a good stretch. We’ve all seen how cats stand and raise their backs in the air after a long nap. Sometimes a cat will knead in order to stretch out its arms or paws. This helps keep them nimble for jumping and climbing.

Marking Territory

Cats may also knead to mark their territory. Kneading activates scent glands that are located in their paw pads. This allows the cat to stake its claim and warn others away from its preferred sleeping spot or human.

Kitten kneading on a bed
Kneading activates scent glands in the cat’s paws that allow it to mark its territory.

Mating

Another reason that cats knead is to attract mates. Female cats may purr, stretch, and knead the air while lying on their sides. This shows male cats that they have permission to approach for possible mating.

Self-Soothing

When a cat is anxious, depressed, or injured, it may exhibit kneading behavior to self-soothe. However, this is less common. If you realize your cat is kneading out of distress, take some time to offer comfort by speaking in a soothing voice and offering gentle petting.

Kneading Alternatives

Part of the reason why cats knead is the desire for comfort. If your cat doesn’t have a soft or comfortable place to rest, you might find it snuggling up to you more often and doing more kneading than you might like. Providing a soft bed will give your cat its own space to relax and a comfortable place to knead.

You can also make sure your cat has fun, soft toys to play with. Having plenty of soft toys can help keep your cat from kneading other soft things—like your couch. Being aware of your cat’s needs and making sure there are plenty of comfortable places for kneading, or “making biscuits,” will help your furry friend remain happy and healthy.


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About the Author

Shaunice Lewis

Freelance writer specializing in natural health and wellness.

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