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It’s a common cat behaviour – but not everyone knows exactly why their pets do it. Many cats will happily spend hours “making biscuits”, rhythmically pressing their paws into blankets, beds or even their owner’s lap.

But while the behaviour is familiar to many cat owners, the reason behind it isn’t always so obvious.

Now, a TikTok creator has shared some of the most common explanations for this feline quirk.

The account Chip and Manx posted a video outlining the potential reasons behind the behaviour, with the first dating back to when cats are kittens.

They explained: “The first reason to stimulate milk production from their mother. Kittens will often push their paws against their mother’s belly while nursing in order to stimulate the flow of milk.”

The TikTok user continued by suggesting that kneading can also indicate comfort and satisfaction, as cats frequently make biscuits on soft surfaces when experiencing happiness and relaxation.

They noted it might be a method for cats to demonstrate affection, with certain pets kneading on their owner’s lap or chest as a means of showing love or claiming their territory.

However, there may also be a more functional reason, as kneading could assist cats in stretching and working the muscles in their paws and legs.

Lastly, the TikTok creator proposed that cats might knead as part of their grooming ritual, employing the motion to dislodge loose fur from their paws.

What does the Blue Cross say:

Seconding their claims, the Blue Cross confirmed how kneading is a habit that originates when cats are young and reliant on their mother for nourishment.

Kittens knead their mother’s stomach while feeding to encourage milk to flow from the teat into their mouths.

This might also explain why certain cats dribble while making biscuits – they may be connecting the familiar kneading motion with feeding from their mother.

If your cat enjoys kneading your lap during cuddles, it could indicate they feel safe and comfortable in your presence.

Blue Cross suggests the habit may remind them of the comfort they experienced with their mother as kittens.

Regrettably for your legs, this can mean the more content your cat is, the more vigorously they knead.

Kneading isn’t exclusively reserved for affectionate moments, as certain cats will perform it before settling down for a sleep.

Blue Cross suggests this could be connected to an instinct passed down from wild cats, who would press down long grass to create a comfortable spot to sleep.