Many cat owners are familiar with their pets “making biscuits” – but the meaning behind this adorable feline behaviour often remains a mystery.
When cats start kneading, or “making biscuits”, they’re engaging in a rhythmic action where they push their paws in and out against a soft surface, such as a blanket, couch, or even their owner. A curious Reddit user posed the question: “Why do cats make biscuits, like is there an actual reason behind the cuteness?”.
Four Paws explains that kneading can signify several things: territory marking, affection demonstration, relaxation, attention-seeking, or simply fulfilling an instinctual need. The organisation elaborates: “Decoding cat body language can often be a challenge because our furry friends may show affection in less obvious ways.
“While a feline’s claws can come out while they knead, they typically are not trying to hurt you.” They add reassuringly, “In fact, it’s likely their way of showing how comfortable they are around you! If your kitty cuddles up and begins to knead on your body, take it as a display of love!”
If a cat seeks attention through kneading, it could also be a sign of hunger or boredom, particularly if they’ve been alone for a while. Four Paws suggests combating cat boredom by scheduling regular playtime or providing toys for mental engagement.
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Intrigued by the affectionate action of cats ‘making biscuits,’ users have chimed in on a social media post to share insights into this heartwarming behaviour. One explained: “Kittens do this when they nurse to boost the milk-flow. So it’s something they do when they’re feeling comfortable.”
Touched by this explanation, the original poster responded: “Are you telling me he’s so comfortable with me he crawls on my chest to make biscuits because I’ll start crying.”
Another wrote: “I remember Googling the reasons when my cat first did it. It said it’s comforting for them, also a way to mark you with their scents which they carry under the paws glands, along those lines. To show the world you belong to them. Epitome of cuteness.”
Adding another layer, a user highlighted the biological aspect: “They have some pheromones in their beans, and they’re marking you with that scent. Plus, it’s probably soothing to expand and retract their toes on something soft like a blanket or thick shirt. I hadn’t heard the nursing explanation before but that also makes sense.”
Finally, another contributor pointed out: “Basically it’s a behavioural throwback to when they were kittens. They kneaded mama’s teats to get milk to flow more when nursing. It’s a behaviour some hold onto, usually it’s a ‘cosy’ gesture. Either because they do feel as safe and happy as they had when they were at their mother’s teat, or they’re anxious and seeking to feel that way.”