This is why cats chew on their owner’s clothes

Many pet owners are already familiar with the peculiar behaviours that cats exhibit. Among their many strange activities—such as blinking, kneading, scratching, and hissing—many are linked to instinctive actions.

If your cat rhythmically rubs its paws against a soft surface, like a blanket or your favourite sweater, and even chews or sucks on it, you might wonder what exactly they are doing. So, why do cats chew on their owner’s clothes?

Kneading is actually a completely normal behaviour. It is widely believed to be a nursing instinct that remains from kittenhood, though there are a few other theories as well. Let’s take a look at them!

What Is Kneading?

Kneading is the rhythmic movement of a cat’s paws, where they alternately press both front paws into a soft surface, such as a blanket or even their owner’s sweater. Many cats also nibble on a blanket or anything within their reach while kneading. This behaviour is often accompanied by purring and even drooling, as they enter a deeply relaxed, drowsy, and stress-free state.

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Why do cats knead and chew on fabrics and clothing?

Understanding this behaviour is essential if we want to modify it without causing stress or anxiety for our feline friends.

1.) Nursing instinct

Kneading and chewing on fabric are behaviours rooted in kittenhood. New-born kittens rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nourishment during their first few weeks. While nursing, they knead and nibble at their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production. This is an instinctive, natural, and completely normal behaviour.

But why do adult cats do it?

For adult cats, kneading and chewing serve a different purpose—it is a soothing behaviour that brings them comfort. While they no longer need milk, the motion reminds them of warmth, security, and safety. This is also why some cats drool while kneading—their salivary glands are triggered, just as they were when nursing. Kneading and chewing on soft materials are common in both male and female adult cats, regardless of their age.

Scientists believe this behaviour is not linked to early weaning or sudden separation from the mother. It has even been observed in kittens raised on bottle feeding, proving that it is purely an instinctive behaviour. Cats usually knead and chew when they feel safe and comfortable. So, if your cat enjoys kneading in your lap and nibbling on your clothes, take it as a compliment! This motion releases happiness hormones, and the pheromones secreted from scent glands in their paw pads further enhance their relaxed state.

2.) Nesting instinct

One theory suggests that the ancestors of domestic cats used kneading to create a comfortable sleeping spot among the tall grasses of the African savanna. This could explain why cats often seem drowsy while kneading. Unlike dogs, who circle an area before settling down, cats use kneading to prepare themselves for a cosy and restful sleep.

3.) Playful behaviour

Although kneading has a distinct rhythmic motion, it can sometimes be mistaken for another common behaviour—grabbing an object with their front paws and nibbling on it. This is more of a playful action that helps cats express their hunting instincts. If your furry friend starts chewing on inappropriate objects, make sure they have enough toys to keep them mentally stimulated. Also, consider whether you’re spending enough quality time with them daily to meet their play and interaction needs.

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How to stop your cat’s behaviour if it becomes uncomfortable for you

If you don’t enjoy your cat kneading on your lap or chewing on your favourite sweater, try redirecting their attention or creating a different situation.

• If your cat kneads and chews on you while sitting on your lap, try placing a thick blanket under their paws. Cats usually love soft things, so they will be satisfied with this solution. This creates a win-win situation: the cat can still knead and chew, while you receive their affection without discomfort.
• Try redirecting your cat’s affection. Place a dedicated blanket on the bed or even an old sweater that carries your scent. Pheromone sprays can help draw their attention to this substitute item.
• Never yell at or startle them, as this can cause stress! Cats learn quickly, and with these methods, they will soon recognize that this behaviour is not desirable for you.