Cats begin kneading as soon as they are born. The act of pressing their claws against both sides of their mother's teats stimulates milk flow.
It's a fundamental instinct they develop from birth, and the majority of cats retain it as adults.
Cats are extremely territorial by nature and enjoy marking their territory.
They possess scent glands in multiple locations on their bodies, including their feet. Kneading is one of the ways cats use their scent to designate their territory.
However, they frequently establish close relationships with their owners and crave attention.
Having our beloved cats knead on our bare skin is an unpleasant experience, particularly when their claws emerge.
It can be quite uncomfortable when our cats use us as clawing posts or pin cushions.
Why do cats pursue their tails? - Ginger cat upside down on a scratching tree