Is excessive kneading a health concern?

While many cats knead regularly without indicating any health problems, excessive kneading requires consideration. Normal kneading usually lasts between 2 and 15 minutes while the cat is relaxing. When kneading becomes excessive, it continues obsessively for hours, and often has a background of distress signals. Knowing the difference stops us from worrying unnecessarily, as it catches the subtle 'problem' signals as they arise.

Watch for signs of physical distress when your cat kneads. Limping, puffy-looking paws, or kneading accompanied by crying or meowing suggests pain. Arthritis may dull the force of kneading in older, chunky cats. Increased monotonous "prickly" kneading may indicate an anxiety disorder that could require treatment; always rule out medical causes first.

Consult your veterinarian promptly if your cat's kneading behavior changes suddenly, along with any other symptoms. Take a video to share. Diagnosis? Pain (like arthritis), anxiety? Treatment? Maybe painkillers for arthritis, an anti-anxiety solution, or a dose of common sense. Never drug your pet without consulting a professional. In most cases, making minor tweaks to the environment resolves the issue.

Lower stress in cats, anxiety, and kneading usually mean feline stress, so create a low-stress environment. Follow predictable routines and make safe hiding spots available. Many pheromone diffusers will help calm anxious kitties. For arthritic seniors, some cats will happily knead on orthopedic cat beds. Taking these steps towards the root of the problem protects, rather than punctures, feline instincts.

Read the full article: 5 Fascinating Reasons Behind Cat Kneading Behavior