Cats knead as a natural, instinctive behavior with several reasons behind it. One primary reason is that when kittens nurse, they knead their mother's stomach to stimulate milk flow, and this comforting action carries into adulthood. As adults, cats knead to show pleasure and contentment, to create a comfortable resting place by "making their bed," to mark their territory through scent glands in their paws, to stretch their muscles, and sometimes as a mating signal in females in heat. Kneading is also a way for cats to express affection and feel secure, as the behavior connects back to their early nursing experience with their mother. Kneading is very common among cats and is often accompanied by purring and sometimes gentle clawing. It is a comforting action that can also help cats release tension and feel relaxed. While it may sometimes be uncomfortable for owners due to clawing, it's a sign that the cat feels happy and safe. In summary, cats knead mainly for comfort, affection, territory marking, muscle stretching, and communication related to mating or nesting instincts.
