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My male cat kneads/chews blankets. Is it normal? How to stop?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 12 lbs

My male cat is exhibiting an odd behavior that I've never seen before. He kneads at the blanket in my bed, chewing it, and when I go to pet him he makes a quick higher pitched meow noise then hunches down. It almost seems like a matingish behavior (male biting female neck). I'm wondering if this is some kind of pleasuring of himself or just an activity related to stress. Is this normal? And how can I get him to quit doing it. He only does this on the quilt in bed.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Juliana,  DVM

Answered By Juliana, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 6th, 2017

This behavior can be a self soothing mechanism and isn't too uncommon. Cats often attach themselves to certain fabrics or pillows so the best way to stop the behavior is to not allow Teddy access to the quilt or similar blankets.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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