Why do cats purr when they knead?

For many cats, purring and kneading are instincts that go hand in hand.This combination of behaviors starts in kittenhood, when newborn felines purr to tell their mothers they’re warm and well-fed. When your older cat does this, they’re likely telling you they’re relaxed and happy.Occasionally, purring is also a way for cats to self-soothe during quiet moments, helping them feel calm and at peace in your company.

Why do cats drool when they knead?

Drooling while kneading is a strong throwback to your cat’s nursing days and shows that they are in a state of deep comfort. They’re so relaxed and happy that they simply forget to swallow!While it’s usually a sign of contentment, if you notice constant drooling when they aren’t kneading, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure everything’s OK.

Why does my cat knead only one person?

Cats choose a favorite person to make biscuits on because they've bonded with that person, they like the way the person smells, or they love the warmth and texture of the sweater they’re wearing.By kneading only one person, cats are using their scent glands to mark that person as their preferred "safe space” and to create a connection that other cats (and dogs) can smell.

Why do cats knead before lying down?

By kneading the spot where they want to nap, your cat is acting on the instinct to prepare a “nest” for sleeping.Kneading helps your cat test the temperature and softness of a surface before they commit to a rest. It’s their natural way of ensuring their sleeping spot is as cozy and safe as it can possibly be.

Grey cat ready to nap after kneading their bedding

Why Do Cats Knead? Types, Behavior, and What It Means

Cats knead to express comfort, mark their territory, stretch their muscles, and reenact soothing behaviors from their kitten years.

You’ve likely seen or experienced your feline friend rhythmically pressing their paws into a blanket, your lap, or your chest. That’s kneading, affectionately known as “making biscuits.”

Kneading is completely normal and natural, but if your cat suddenly changes their kneading behavior, it can be a sign of stress or hormone changes.

In this guide, we’ll explain why cats knead, what different kneading styles indicate, how to manage the behavior gently without discouraging your cat's natural instincts, and what it might mean if your cat’s kneading behavior suddenly changes.

Key Takeaways

Kneading is a rhythmic motion your cat used when they were a kitten to help stimulate their mother’s milk during nursing.
As adults, cats knead to show comfort, bond with their owners, mark their territory, stretch, and deal with stress.
Kneading can reflect your cat’s emotional state. They may perform a gentle treading motion, or they may knead with their claws and even drool while they knead.
Excessive kneading, compulsive kneading, or sudden changes in kneading behavior may be a sign of stress or an underlying issue.

Why Do Cats Knead?

They’re Following Their Instincts

When your cat was little, they instinctively knew how to push on their mother’s belly to get milk flowing and make nursing easier. This leads to a lifelong association between kneading and the comfort, relaxation, and security of nursing.

Once they're no longer nursing, your cat will continue to knead soft things like blankets, cushions, bedding, and even your lap or chest as a way to show that they feel happy and comfortable.

They may even purr, drool, and blink slowly while they’re kneading, and they'll sometimes curl up for a quick nap when they’re done.

They’re Marking Their Territory

When your cat kneads your favorite blanket or settles into your lap to "make biscuits," they’re doing more than just getting cozy. They’re actually sending a secret message!

Cats have tiny scent glands hidden in their paw pads. As they press down, those glands release special scents called pheromones that mark the spot as a safe space within their territory. By kneading on you, your cat is marking you as their favorite person and a safe place to land.

They’re Stretching Their Muscles

In many ways, kneading is like yoga for cats. When they repeatedly push their paws down and pull them back, they’re stretching the muscles in their shoulders, front legs, and paws. Your cat may stretch like this after a long nap or before settling down to rest.

This is similar to a deep yawn or stretch that you might do right before going to bed or after waking up. The behavior helps your cat feel refreshed, limber, and relaxed so they can sleep better or be prepared for their next adventure.

Their Hormones Are Changing

A change in a cat's hormone levels, like when a female cat goes into heat, can sometimes lead to a change in the way they knead, or how often they knead.

When she's in heat, your cat might become more affectionate, purring or meowing loudly to get your attention while she makes biscuits on her favorite cushion or your lap. This is a natural reaction to her body getting ready to become pregnant.

Sometimes, having your cat spayed can help level out her moods.

What Are the Different Types of Kneading?

Every cat has their own style when it comes to "making biscuits." Some prefer a gentle touch, while others use their claws to show deep focus.

The rhythm they use can also communicate their feelings. A slow, steady pace usually means they’re feeling good. If the kneading becomes intense or frantic, your cat might be feeling overstimulated.

While kneading is perfectly normal, if it ever seems excessive or your cat appears anxious, talk to your veterinarian to ensure that your cat stays happy and healthy.

Here are the different types of kneading, what they look like, and what they may mean.

Type of Kneading	What It Looks Like	What It May Mean
Gentle paw treading	Soft, rhythmic motion	Relaxation, contentment
Kneading with claws	Claws extend intermittently	High excitement or deep comfort
Kneading + drooling	Drool while kneading	Strong nursing instinct recall
Vigorous kneading	Intense pressing, shifting weight	Excitement, anticipation, overstimulation
Excessive kneading	Long duration, repetitive	Possible stress or unmet comfort needs

What to Do When Your Cats Knead

Never try to stop your cat’s kneading. It's an instinctive behavior ingrained from birth, so attempting to change it can cause your cat serious stress. Instead, try these suggestions to redirect their kneading behavior.

Set Up a Cozy Kneading Corner

Every cat deserves a comfy place to unwind! If your cat's "biscuit making" gets to be too much, try setting up a spot where they can go to knead in peace.

Leave a cushion, cat bed, or blanket in a sunny spot or quiet corner, and when your cat starts to knead your favorite sweater, try moving them to this special spot.

Doing this lets your cat act on their instincts while keeping your home (and your wardrobe!) safe from their claws.

Keep Cuddle Time Comfortable

Your cat’s claws are sharp! And even accidental clawing during kneading can really hurt.

To help you stay comfortable (and injury free) when your cat wants to sit with you, keep a thick, folded blanket or a soft towel nearby. Place it over your lap to protect your skin and clothing from accidental scratches and snags.

It’s also a good idea to trim your cat’s claws on a regular basis so you don’t have to worry that they’ll destroy your favorite pair of pants when they start to make biscuits on your lap.

Always Lead with Love

Most of the time, kneading is a natural expression of love and comfort that should never be discouraged or punished. Raising your voice or reacting negatively can cause your cat to feel anxious or confused, which might lead to stress-driven behavior.

When you need to stop your cat from kneading on something, keep your voice calm and be gentle with them.

When Kneading Becomes Excessive

If your cat begins kneading constantly or with a sense of urgency, they might be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or insecure.

Changes in your home, such as new furniture, new routines, or new additions to the family (both pets and children) can make your cat feel anxious.

In addition to a change in kneading behavior, if your cat starts pacing restlessly, meowing loudly, or grooming in a different way than usual, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you understand why your cat is reacting the way they are.

At the end of the day, your cat’s kneading behavior is a reminder of the trust and love they have for you. When your feline friend chooses your lap for their "biscuit making," they’re telling you they feel safe and secure.

When you make your home a calm place and provide comfortable spaces, consistent routines, and enjoyable mealtimes, your cat's natural instincts will shine.

And nothing starts or completes a day of comfort quite like SHEBA® Wet Cat Food. These recipes are crafted with high-quality nutrition and irresistible textures that make mealtime the highlight of your cat's day!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All Questions Cats-kneading

Why do cats purr when they knead?

For many cats, purring and kneading are instincts that go hand in hand.
This combination of behaviors starts in kittenhood, when newborn felines purr to tell their mothers they’re warm and well-fed. When your older cat does this, they’re likely telling you they’re relaxed and happy.
Occasionally, purring is also a way for cats to self-soothe during quiet moments, helping them feel calm and at peace in your company.
Why do cats drool when they knead?

Drooling while kneading is a strong throwback to your cat’s nursing days and shows that they are in a state of deep comfort. They’re so relaxed and happy that they simply forget to swallow!
While it’s usually a sign of contentment, if you notice constant drooling when they aren’t kneading, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure everything’s OK.
Why does my cat knead only one person?

Cats choose a favorite person to make biscuits on because they've bonded with that person, they like the way the person smells, or they love the warmth and texture of the sweater they’re wearing.
By kneading only one person, cats are using their scent glands to mark that person as their preferred "safe space” and to create a connection that other cats (and dogs) can smell.
Why do cats knead before lying down?

By kneading the spot where they want to nap, your cat is acting on the instinct to prepare a “nest” for sleeping.
Kneading helps your cat test the temperature and softness of a surface before they commit to a rest. It’s their natural way of ensuring their sleeping spot is as cozy and safe as it can possibly be.