Why Do Cats Knead Soft Surfaces? 0 7

Cats often knead soft surfaces while making purring sounds. There are several theories explaining this behavior of our furry friends.

It is not uncommon to see a cat kneading soft items before settling down on them to sleep. This behavior is sometimes referred to as the “milk step.” But what does it mean, and is it normal for domestic pets?

In fact, the exact reasons for this behavior remain unclear. However, there are several hypotheses. One suggests that the “milk step” is a behavioral pattern formed in childhood that does not disappear in adulthood. During feeding, a kitten kneads the area around its mother’s nipple to stimulate milk flow.

In adulthood, a cat likely kneads soft items when it feels joy or satisfaction, as it associates this movement with pleasant memories from its childhood. This is supported by the fact that some cats even try to suck or lick the surface they are kneading.

According to another hypothesis, this behavior has roots in wild times when the ancestors of domestic cats would raise foliage to create a softer surface for sleeping or giving birth. Today, this behavior may persist at an instinctual level, even after domestication. Additionally, this behavior may serve as another way to mark their territory, as cats have special glands in the pads of their paws.