How do I get my cat to stop kneading on me?
How to Get Your Cat to Stop Kneading on You
Are you looking for ways to get your cat to stop kneading on you? Kneading is one of the most common behaviors exhibited by cats; they may knead their owners, furniture, and other objects. While this behavior is adorable, it can become annoying and painful if done too vigorously. Luckily, there are several helpful strategies you can use to discourage your cat from kneading.
Understand Why Cats Knead
Before attempting to stop your cat from kneading on you, it’s important to understand why cats do this in the first place. Kneading is actually a pacifying behavior that usually occurs when cats feel relaxed and content. This behavior is usually performed against soft surfaces like blankets, couches, and their owners.
Provide Plush Surfaces to Knead On
One way to keep your cat from kneading on you is to provide plush surfaces for it to knead on. Placing a cozy blanket or pillow in your cat’s play area is a great way to offer a comfortable alternative surface to knead on. This can also give your cat an area of its own to settle down and relax as it kneads away.
Redirect Your Cat’s Energy
Another approach is to redirect your cat’s energy by providing it with plenty of toys, scratching posts, and interactive playtime activities. This can keep your cat engaged and distracted, reducing the amount of time it spends kneading on others.
Reward Positive Behaviors
Encourage your cat to use its paws in ways other than kneading by rewarding it for positive behaviors. Whenever you see your cat using its paws to interact with objects or toys, verbally praise it and offer a treat as a reward. Not only will this help divert your cat’s attention away from kneading people, but it can also help create a strong bond between you and your kitty.
Discourage Kneading Through Negative Reinforcement
At the same time, you should also be sure to consistently discourage kneading on people. Whenever your cat begins to knead on you, gently but firmly push it away and offer a stern “No”. Additionally, consider not offering it rewards if it continues to knead on people even after being redirected.
Give Your Cat Plenty of Attention
Finally, make sure your cat receives plenty of attention throughout the day in the form of love, affection, petting, and playtime. An active, happy cat is less likely to resort to kneading as a way of receiving comfort and attention.
Overall, while it can be difficult to get your cat to stop kneading on you, it’s definitely possible. By providing your cat with plush surfaces to knead on, engaging it in interactive playtime activities, and giving it plenty of attention and rewards, you can eventually reduce the frequency and intensity of your cat’s kneading.
