by KYW's Nan Talleno
If you’ve ever lived with a cat, you’ve become quite familiar with their act of “kneading.” Kneading is when your cat, when settled in a very comfortable place, such as a blanket or most likely your lap or even laying on your chest, gently starts to expand and retract his/her front claws.
Now it’s certainly not the same as sharpening their claws, (which is a more abrupt and intense behavior) but rather, it’s simply a more gentle movement of the front paws.
This act of kneading with the paws is usually accompanied by purring and in some cases, even drooling. If you’re cat exhibits this posture, feel very privileged, as this is a sign of affection, security, and contentment.
This behavior may have its roots from kittenhood, as kittens gently knead at their mother for a better flow of milk to survive. This would also explain the accompanied warm nurturing feeling, as it is reminiscent of the time spent with their mother.
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