Understanding your cat's kneading: Comfort or concern?
When a cat climbs onto a person, kneading with its paws, sometimes using its claws, it can cause discomfort. Animal behaviour experts recommend not punishing pets for such actions as they are conducted without any ill intentions. So, what are they trying to communicate through this behaviour?
Cat communication can be difficult to interpret. It's no surprise – cats are exceptionally independent animals that often mean something different to what it seems at first glance. So what does it mean when a cat uses its paws to knead a human's body? Zuzanna Rajchert, a behaviourist, explained on the Silver TV channel how to understand this behaviour and why punishing the pet should be avoided.
What does cat kneading mean?
For many people, a cat's kneading can resemble a pleasant massage. However, when a cat extends its claws, it can become a bit painful. Although one might think that the cat is venting frustration or feeling discontented, it is trying to convey something entirely different.
- Kittens knead their mother's belly when they're suckling. This behaviour (kneading - editor’s note) is associated with something very pleasant for cats. They feel safe, calm, and essentially, very good. This habit carries into adulthood. (...) A cat may also knead to improve its mood - explained the expert.
In this way, it shows that it feels comfortable with us.
How to react to cat claws?
Even when a cat digs its claws into our skin and we feel pain, it’s worth staying calm. The animal behaviour expert pointed out that it's important not to react with anger at that moment.
She also added that when a cat kneads us uncomfortably, we shouldn't get upset but see it as a compliment.
- Cats have scent glands between their pads and love to mark various places in this way. They say "you are my human," so we should be pleased and grin and bear it if it hurts - emphasised Rajchert.
The behaviourist advises regularly trimming your pet's claws or gently redirecting its kneading to something soft, like a blanket or pillow. A good solution is also to have a piece of fabric handy. You can shield your torso or legs with it, allowing the cat to express affection while protecting your body from scratches.
Why do cats knead with their paws?
What other reasons are there for kneading with paws? Dr Hannah Hart, a behaviourist, also highlights that we should remain vigilant if we notice such behaviour too often.
"The kneading action in cats releases pain-relieving, mood-enhancing dopamine in the brain. Therefore, increased or excessive kneading may be a sign that your cat feels uncomfortable or anxious, and this behaviour could be a self-soothing attempt," she noted in her article.
