When the cat makes biscuits like this, it’s a very good thing

If you've seen this move before here's an explanation for it.

It’s nothing new for cat owners when their pet starts to knead. The rhythmic pulling in and out of the claws, usually accompanied by loud purring is one of the cats’ most endearing habits. Most of the pets do this with their front legs, but sometimes the cat will also do it with their hind legs. We investigated what might be the cause of the strange – and, let’s admit it, downright endearing –behaviour

The psychology of kneading

First, let’s take a quick look at why cats are kneading. This is a completely natural behaviour in kittens, which is instinctive and can be traced back to newborns. In the case of kittens, the primary purpose of kneading is to stimulate the production of milk by the mother cat. While they are suckling, the babies are constantly kneading to make sure they get enough breast milk.

For kittens, the movement is associated with very positive memories, and they don’t forget it as adults. Thus, kneading becomes a part of happiness, contentment and general well-being. It is usually done on surfaces that remind the animal of their mother in the way they feel. This could be a soft blanket, a pile of freshly laundered clothes – or the owner’s thigh.

The measure of happiness

So kneading is tantamount to satisfaction. And there are other indicators of how happy a cat is from one to ten.

One of these additional activities is when the cat gets so into the kneading and purring combination that they forget to swallow the saliva that comes out of their mouth. It is important to note, however, that this “happy drooling” should not be confused with the health problems caused by excessive saliva production. The former evokes the cat’s stored memories of its mother’s milk, and saliva production is an automatic reflex. The latter, however, may also indicate dental problems, among other things. Therefore needs to be seen by a vet as soon as possible. If your pet’s drooling is not related to the kneading and purring, it’s time for a check-up.

Another sign that your pet is having a particularly good time is if they are kneading with their hind legs as well as their front legs. Sometimes kittens get so into the movement and purring that they unknowingly get their hind legs in on the fun. The result is a once adorable and ridiculous sight, as the back legs are of course not as sophisticated to knead.