by Carrie Profenno: Author, Coonie Mama & lifelong Mainer
What is the meaning of cats making biscuits?
If you’ve ever seen a cat rhythmically pressing their paws into a soft surface - like a cozy blanket, your favorite sweater, or even your lap - you’ve witnessed the endearing behavior lovingly dubbed “making biscuits.”
For cat parents, it’s a familiar sight that can be both adorable and perplexing. What’s behind this quirky habit?
My big Maine Coon Leo was a champion biscuit maker. Every evening, like clockwork, he hopped up onto a lap (any lap!), gave a few head bumps, and started kneading away.
It’s as if he was baking the world’s tiniest loaf of bread! Alice, on the other hand, was less predictable.
She reserved kneading for more quiet moments, like when I was sitting at the computer and she settled in for a long lap visit.
Watching their different styles always made me smile - and it’s a reminder that this habit has a deeper meaning.
Let’s explore why cats make biscuits and uncover the fascinating reasons behind this behavior.
Kneading starts when cats are just tiny kittens nursing from their mothers. The motion of their little paws helps stimulate milk flow, creating a comforting association between the movement and nourishment.
Even as adults, many continue this behavior when they feel relaxed and safe. It’s their way of channeling that sense of security they first experienced as kittens.
Alice’s favorite spot to knead was on my fleece blanket - the same one she’d had since she was a kitten. It seemed to be her version of a childhood comfort item, reminding her of those early days.
When cats knead, they’re not just flexing their paws - they’re also releasing scent markers from the glands in their paw pads.
This invisible “signature” lets them claim their favorite spots (or people!) as their own.
Some kitties love kneading on the same place, such as an armrest of a couch. It’s clearly their domain, and this behavior helps them make sure everyone knows it, even if we can’t smell the evidence.
This behavior is tied to ancestral instincts. Wild cats would press down on grass or leaves to create a soft resting place.
While today’s housecats have cozy beds, they still carry this ingrained habit.
What is the meaning of cats making biscuits in this context?
It’s their way of ensuring comfort before settling down for a nap, just like their ancestors once did.
Another meaning behind cats making biscuits is their way of expressing love and trust.
When they gently paw at their human or a favorite blanket, it’s a sign they feel relaxed and safe.
While this display of affection is heartwarming, it can sometimes come with sharp claws.
Trimming nails regularly can help keep the experience more pleasant.
One possible meaning behind cats making biscuits is stress relief. The repetitive motion helps them relax.
Much like humans might fidget or tap their fingers, this habit can provide a calming effect.
Some behaviors from kittenhood simply never fade. Cats making biscuits is often just a lingering habit from nursing days.
Even though they’ve outgrown the need to nurse, the action remains comforting and familiar.
The act of rhythmically pressing their paws may simply feel pleasant to them. Felines often repeat actions that provide sensory satisfaction.
So, the next time you wonder, “What’s the meaning of cats making biscuits?” it might be as simple as this: they enjoy it.
"Is it normal for cats to make biscuits on humans?"
Yes, this is completely normal and often a sign of affection. When your cat makes biscuits on you, it means they feel safe and comfortable.
It’s one of the ways they bond with their favorite people.
"Why do some cats make biscuits while purring?"
Cats making biscuits while purring often means they are feeling pure contentment! Purring and kneading together show they’re at their happiest and most relaxed.
"Should I worry if my cat never makes biscuits?"
Not at all! Some cats simply don’t knead, and it doesn’t mean anything is wrong. Every cat has unique ways of showing comfort and love.
If your Coonie’s kneading behavior is a little too sharp for comfort, try placing a thick blanket or towel on your lap during their biscuit-making sessions.
Trimming their nails regularly can also help.
Remember, the meaning behind cats making biscuits is usually positive, so it’s best to encourage this affectionate behavior gently rather than discourage it.
While the reason for cats making biscuits is usually harmless, excessive behavior could indicate anxiety or stress.
If your Maine Coon is constantly kneading, especially in new or unfamiliar situations, it might be worth observing their environment for changes.
Make sure they have plenty of quiet, relaxing spots to retreat to. In some cases, a vet might recommend calming solutions if the behavior becomes disruptive.
So, the next time you wonder, “What’s the meaning of cats making biscuits?” it might be as simple as this: they enjoy it.
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