If you own a cat, you have probably seen some of its cutest actions: rhythmic pushing movements of the front paws against blankets, pillows, beds, and even against yourself. Owners commonly refer to it as "making biscuits" since the action looks exactly the same as kneading dough. On our website, mybestie.gr, one of the most popular questions asked by cat owners is "Why do cats knead with their paws, and what does it mean?" Fortunately, the reason behind kneading is generally a positive one. There are still many unknowns about cat's behavior but there are a few solid theories explaining why cats knead all their lives.

Kneading begins at birth

One of the best explanations has roots in kittenhood. Kittens instinctively use this kneading technique when suckling at their mother's breast to stimulate milk production. Since the action is linked to a warm place, security, and satisfaction of needs, many specialists believe that cats preserve this calming technique into adulthood. An adult cat's action of kneading a cozy blanket or even your legs can mean trying to recreate some of the happiest moments of their life.

This explains why kneading is often combined with:

• Purring
• Laying back in a relaxed manner
• Eyes half closed
• Slow blinking

All of these indicate that your kitty is in a safe and secure environment.

Is your cat showing you affection?

Many cat lovers wonder whether this behavior is a gesture of love. As mentioned above, cats can hardly express love in words, but they do so using behavior. Choosing to knead on your leg, chest or beside you on the couch shows that your cat trusts you emotionally. Basically, your cat includes you in its safe environment. Of course, your pet is not thinking about you as a substitute mommy. Nevertheless, being around you makes him feel secure as he did in his kitten days. If your cat frequently kneads you, consider it a compliment.

A remnant from wild felines

Scientists also suggest that there is an evolutionary background for this action. The wild ancestors of cats most probably flattened the grass, leaves and other plants before lying down to rest. They used their paws to press down the vegetation and make a comfortable place for sleeping. Despite the fact that today's domesticated cats are pampered with soft beds and couches, many instinctive behaviors left by their wild predecessors still survive in their actions.

In this context, it is understandable why cats tend to knead a blanket before napping on it several times.

Smelling marking: Staking their claim on favored items

The paws of cats have special glands, which make the act of kneading more complicated than just stretching. The process results in marking the item with imperceptible smell markers, understandable only to cats. As such, kneading is another way of saying: "It's mine."

To put it in perspective, your cat considers:

• Blankets
• Bed
• Couch
• Its favorite napping places
• Or even yourself

On the surface, it seems like being too possessive; in reality, it's an indication of trust towards the owner.

But should you ever have reason to worry?

Kneading is an absolutely normal and healthy behavior in almost all cases. However, if the cat kneading suddenly becomes obsessive and is coupled with excessive meowing, signs of anxiety, or even compulsive licking of fabrics, the cat owner might want to discuss the issue with their vet. For the overwhelming majority of cats, kneading is merely a relaxing practice, nothing more.

There aren't many cat behaviors as adorable and mysterious as kneading. No matter whether the kneading behavior reminds the cat of its childhood, serves as a show of affection, a territorial display, or merely a means to create the perfect bed for napping, it's a clear sign of happiness, safety, and contentment.

So when you cat starts kneading your leg or arm, consider it the greatest compliment from a feline friend.