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Kneading (often referred to asmaking biscuits[1]) is abehavior frequently observed indomesticcats where, when a cat feels at ease, it may push out and pull in its frontpaws against a surface such as furniture or carpet, or against another pet or human, often alternating between right and left limbs. Each stroke is accompanied by a grasping motion of the claws as if the cat werekneading dough.
The cat exerts firm downwardspressure with its paw, opening itstoes to expose itsclaws, then closes its claws as it lifts its paw. The process takes place with alternate paws at intervals of one to two seconds. They may do this while sitting on their owner's lap, which may prove painful if the cat is large or strong or has sharp claws (as the claws tend to dig into one's lap). Though cats will sit happily on a hard surface, they will only knead a soft or pliant surface. Some cats will reflexively "march" on hard surfaces instead of kneading them.[1]
In gardens where cats are present, sheltered areas can often reveal the "wild" results of kneading: round, cat-sized nests trodden into long grass. Domestic cats also make "nests" out of cardboard boxes and other items. They also do this by kneading with their claws out in an attempt to scratch and soften some of the material. This action is different in manner, body language, and intent from kneading when they are happy.[2]
Cats knead soft objects such asteddy bears. Cats may adopt a blanket and use it like asecurity blanket. This will include much kneading, purring and suckling of the blanket. In some cases, cats have been observed to exhibit sexual movements, not unlike a dog "humping" a human leg, accompanying the kneading and suckling. Kittens who are taken away from their mothers before they are fullyweaned may also develop a habit of kneading a human whom they have adopted as amaternal figure, and may also attempt suckling their hands or ear. Cats mainly do so as kittens, but sometimes the behavior continues into adult life.[citation needed]
Many theories exist that explain why cats knead.[3] Kneading may have an origin going back to cats'wild ancestors who had to tread down grass orfoliage to make a temporarynest in which to rest. Alternatively, the behavior may be a remnant of a newborn's kneading of the mother'steat to stimulate milk secretion.[4] Kneading may also be a form of communication between owner and feline: because of the action's maternal connection, the behavior may be a communication of affection towards the cat's human companion.[5]
Many catspurr while kneading. They also purr mostly when newborn, when feeding, or when trying to feed on their mother's teat. The common association between the two behaviors may indicate the origin of kneading as a remnant instinct. Some experts[specify] consider kneading to stimulate the cat and make it feel good, in the same manner asstretching.[citation needed]
