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Why do cats make biscuits? Well, these aren’t the biscuits you’ll be eating for breakfast.
When we ask why do cats make biscuits, it is in reference to your cat’s behavior of kneading that resembles a baker kneading dough.
Let’s face it, cats do a lot of things we can’t explain, like drinking out of toilets.
But maybe we can give you a better idea of why they knead.
Cats knead when they are gently pushing down alternately between the front paws on any surface, and it can be quite hypnotic and relaxing for your cat.
Although most cats knead, it’s still a bit of a mystery as to why they do it.
Why Do Cats Knead?
Kneading is one of those behaviors in cats that is truly peculiar. We often wonder why cats need to knead.
They gently push on your tummy and you can see that they are enjoying it almost too much as their eyes begin to look like they are high on Meowijuana.
Kneading is an instinctual behavior for cats and usually begins when they are very young.
Kneading As A Feeding Behavior
Cats begin to “make biscuits” very early in life. If you have ever seen a kitten with its mother, you may find them kneading to start the flow of milk while nursing.
The result of this behavior is, obviously, a positive one, and some say they attach that behavior to the positive result and carry it on into adulthood.
Although it may not result in feeding, they may associate it with a nurturing feeling.
Cats Knead to Nest
Cats in the wild make their bedding each night by tamping down grass and ridding the bedding area of any pests.
This behavior is not only common in cats but in other animals as well.
It is possible that this ingrained behavior has carried on to the indoor cat, and that may be why they often knead a blanket or the surface they sleep on.
(Yeah, it’s a first-world problem, but nonetheless.)
Cats Knead to Mark
It is said that cats are very territorial animals. Cats may knead to stimulate the scent glands in their paws to mark territory or toys.
Cats often knead their owners or mothers, possibly for the same reason or to show you their affection when they decide to.
Let’s face it, affection can be painful at times. We address more on that below.
Cats Knead to Stretch
Another answer to the question of why do cats make biscuits is that kneading can accompany a good long hard stretch.
It is not known if the two are completely associated, but kneading can help secure them to a surface when stretching.
After a good long nap, it’s nice to get the blood flowing in the back, hind legs, and shoulders before heading off.
How to Stop Your Cat From Kneading
Now that you know the answer to the question, “Why do cats make biscuits?”, how do you stop them.
If they are not using their claws and causing pain or damage to furniture, there is no real need to stop them.
In addition, you’re not going to stop an instinctual behavior.
However, there are some things you can do to distract them or protect yourself from the grabby kneaders.
Let’s face it love can hurt sometimes. One tip to prevent the aggressive kneader is to keep the claws trimmed.
Another way to stop the kneading pain is to add an extra layer of blanket or fabric that will not allow their claws to reach your skin.
If you just don’t like the kneading behavior being performed on you, get them a super-soft cat bed or plush fleece cat blanket to allow them to continue.
Lastly, you can also get them a cat toy or other object to get their attention and temporarily stop the behavior that will undoubtedly begin at a later time.
For those times when there is no harm, it can be a great time to bond with your cat, so enjoy it if you can.
