If you have a cat, it has probably given you a paw massage at least once.
Or perhaps you've seen your pet diligently stamping his paws on some surface, purring at the same time. We explain why cats do this.
What does it mean when cats give massages
Science provides several explanations for this behavior in cats.
Firstly, by massaging any surface with their paws, cats mark it – they have sweat glands on the pads of their paws.
The second explanation is genetic memory. In the wild, cats had to make their own homes. They would trample grass to make their sleeping place more comfortable.
The third explanation is a habit from childhood. Feeding on the milk of the mother cat, kittens knead her belly with their paws to get more food.
Kittens that are taken away from their mother early often trample their owner with their paws. This is a sign of affection and trust.
Even if you don't like the way your cat massages you, be patient, otherwise she'll get offended.