Write a commentDear Porky & Buddy: OK, so I’m sort of a manly guy, if you know what I mean, and I adopted this cat, George, thinking he would add to my manly image—plus I just love cats, how aloof and independent they are—like me.
So far, so good, except that when George (who is huge and tough looking, like me) sits on my lap he insists upon sort of kneading the blanket that I put on my lap for him. It feels weird to me, but what’s worse is that, if I were to have a lady friend over, this kneading habit that he has sort of wrecks both of our images. Why does he do that? Should I try to stop him? How? Signed, Pete
Dear Pete,
You’re just going to have to redefine manly—although we must say, it sounds like you are well on your way, anyway. Kneading is the motion that cats make when they alternate pushing their paws in and out against a soft surface. Not all cats do it, but it is totally normal. It stems from kitten hood when, before George was able to feed on his own, he would instinctively knead at his mom as a way to stimulate milk production. He’s not looking for milk anymore, but he associates the motion of kneading with the pleasures of nursing. So, basically, when George kneads you he’s feeling happy and content and showing his affection for you.
Cats also knead for other reasons, as a way to stretch after a nap, as a way to get their bed (a/k/a your lap) ready for another nap, and as a way to release their scent from the glands in their paws to mark their territory (a/k/a your lap). As you can tell these are all normal and understandable behaviors.
So no, you should not try to stop him from this affectionate habit, although your idea of using a blanket for lap sitting sessions is a good one, especially if he is prone to use his claws. Other than that, learn to accept and enjoy George’s “cattiness”—and maybe enlist his services as a lady friend magnet!
The Oswego County Humane Society provides spay/neuter services and assistance, fostering and adoption of animals in urgent need, humane education programs, and information and referrals to animal lovers throughout Oswego County. Located at 29 West Seneca Street, Oswego, New York. Phone (315) 2,07-1070. Email: ochscontact@hotmail.com Website: www.oswegohumane.org Because People and Pets Are Good for Each Other.
