The rhythmic pressing, paw over paw, often on a blanket or a lap, right before a cat settles down, is called kneading. It looks almost like the cat is working dough, which is exactly where the nickname comes from, and it's one of the more reliably misunderstood cat behaviors out there.
Where the behavior comes from
Kittens knead against their mother while nursing to stimulate milk flow, a reflex tied directly to feeding and comfort. Most cats never fully outgrow the motion, and it tends to resurface in adulthood specifically in moments of contentment, not stress.
Frequently asked questions
Does kneading mean my cat is stressed or anxious?
Generally no, it's one of the more reliable signals of comfort and contentment. Genuine stress in cats shows up differently, through flattened ears, tail flicking, or avoidance rather than slow, rhythmic kneading.
Why does my cat knead right before lying down?
It's closely tied to nesting instinct as well as the nursing reflex, cats in the wild would tamp down grass or bedding before settling. Kneading a blanket is a domestic echo of the same behavior.
Is it normal for cats to knead with claws out?
Very common, and not a sign of aggression on its own. A soft surface like a blanket usually absorbs it fine; a light trim of the nail tips can help if it's catching on skin or fabric.