1. Instinctual Behavior:
* Marking Territory: Kneading is a leftover instinct from kittenhood. Kittens knead their mother's belly to stimulate milk production. As adults, they may be instinctively marking their territory or claiming you as their "territory" by leaving their scent.
* Comfort and Security: The act of kneading releases endorphins and serotonin, which are mood-regulating hormones, giving your cat a sense of comfort and security.
* Stretching and Exercise: The kneading action can help stretch out their paws and claws, keeping them limber.
2. Sensory Stimulation:
* Texture Preference: Some cats may be drawn to the soft texture of blankets, which they enjoy manipulating with their paws. The act of kneading provides a sensory experience similar to the feeling of their mother's fur.
3. Memory and Association:
* Positive Reinforcement: If a cat has positive associations with a particular blanket, such as warmth, comfort, or playtime, they may knead it as a way of recalling those good feelings.
4. Physical Needs:
* Claw Maintenance: The act of kneading can help cats maintain their claws by removing excess sheaths.
Why they knead on you:
* Love and Affection: Your cat may knead on you as a sign of affection and bonding. They see you as a source of comfort and security.
* You Smell Good: Your cat might be drawn to your scent, which they associate with positive experiences.
It's important to note that:
* Not all cats knead. Some cats may never show this behavior.
* Intensity varies: The intensity of kneading can range from light to forceful.
* Painful kneading: If your cat kneads too forcefully, it can be painful. You can discourage this by providing them with alternative surfaces, like a scratching post.
Ultimately, while we may not have a definitive answer, kneading is a complex behavior with multiple possible explanations. It is a fascinating aspect of feline behavior that adds to their charm and uniqueness.