Why Do Cats Knead Your Chest

Alternatively the behavior may be a remnant of a newborn s kneading of the mother s teat to stimulate milk secretion.

Why do cats knead your chest. Kneading may have an origin going back to cats wild ancestors who had to tread down grass or foliage to make a temporary nest in which to rest. Because kittens use this motion to satisfy a need they often associate the habit with a good thing and bring it into their adult cat life as well. When cats knead the scent glands on the pads of their feet will mark the surface being kneaded. This same action carries over to.

Cats begin kneading instinctually as kittens when they are nursing to help stimulate their mothers milk. Sometimes your cat wants to feel the warmth of your body which it finds on top of your chest. So usually it means hello i like you right now or exuse me but i need you next cats usually do not sleep near others especially humans if they do n. An added bonus if the cat is kneading your lap or chest she s saying she owns you and also feels comfortable and safe with you.

So the scent left is a territorial marker. His paws respond to the memory by starting to knead. Their ancestors did this with tall grass or leaves. One reason cats knead is to make a soft bed or clear a space to doze.

Kittens knead at their mother s tummy when they re hungry and looking for milk. It starts her lactation and increases the supply of milk in her teats. Though your cat may be long past nursing age they might still enjoy the comforting sensation of being close to a protective figure they associate with kneading. In a cuddling situation your cat feels safe and warm and his brain recalls his first experiences that were safe and warm.

Many cats will knead a blanket or towel before taking a nap on it. If you do not keep claws trimmed and blunt kneading can be uncomfortable for you but your cat does not mean to hurt you. While nuzzling he ll purr knead his paws and have the most blissful look on his face. It s awfully cute when tom jumps up on your lap climbs up your chest and nuzzles your neck.

Multiple theories exist that explain why cats knead. It may also be associated with having extra comfort a way of showing its affection towards you having a sense of security that it finds on the chest area or simply it may love that particular area for its rest. He s treating you like one of his own littermates but he s also secretly claiming you as his own prize. They do it with your jeans.

First cats knead mostly to show affection or to let you know they need or want something. When they are kittens that kneading action on the mom tells her the kits are ready to eat.