The motion of a feline pushing its paws rhythmically in opposition to a mushy floor, typically a human companion, is known as kneading. This habits, sometimes noticed in kittens nursing to stimulate milk stream from their mom, can persist into maturity. Male cats who interact on this motion are sometimes exhibiting contentment and a way of safety.
This habits supplies a tactile type of communication for the animal. It reinforces the bond between the cat and the recipient of the kneading. Moreover, it might function a type of self-soothing, harking back to the consolation skilled throughout early kittenhood. Some theories counsel it additionally could possibly be a means for the animal to mark its territory by scent glands positioned in its paws.
