MAKING BISCUITS
Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding As adults, cats continue to knead when they feel like they did with their mothers — happy and safe. It’s often a reflexive behavior, much like purring. Experts believe they find the action soothing, which is why some cats do it when they’re experiencing stress. Treading also seems to be an effective way to receive attention from humans and show their affection in return. Kneading is an instinctual behavior that traces back to cats’ earliest days. Kittens knead their mothers’ stomachs to help express milk and ensure they receive enough nutrients. It’s a matter of survival, but cats also find it extremely comforting. Why Cats Knead Call it kneading, treading, paddling, making biscuits, or baking bread — but everyone who has ever lived with a cat has witnessed it. Kneading occurs when a cat rhythmically presses on something soft with their paws, usually while purring. Cats certainly seem to enjoy the process and sometimes appear to enter an almost hypnotic state while doing it. But why?
But kneading probably serves several other purposes. Cats have scent glands on the bottom of their paws that help them mark their territory. It is one of the reasons cats scratch items they think “belong” to them. Treading may be a less destructive way to achieve the same purpose and explains why cats tend to knead favorite items and human laps.
Cats also seem to enjoy “making their beds” before sleeping. Big cats in the wild often knead the ground to flatten and prepare it before resting. Even if the difference is only in their minds, cats seem to think that kneading something makes it more comfortable. A combination of these reasons could explain why pregnant cats generally start making biscuits where they intend to give birth. Kneading helps them create a safe and comfortable environment for their kittens, release scents for their babies to learn, and calm themselves down before a big event.
Of course, even the most adorable pet behavior can turn annoying under the right circumstances. So, cats’ kneading is one of several reasons to keep their nails properly trimmed. Their habit will be much sweeter when it doesn’t cause you pain. If you can’t take the kneading any longer, it’s also fine to redirect your cat with treats or toys. We all have our limits — but remember, your cat means it as a compliment.
St. Patrick’s Day Frozen Dog Treats Inspired by BeaglesAndBargains.com
Shane & Sarah Roberts Gary Johnson Clare Curtis Heather Graham Coy McTernan Davis & Becky Walton Larry Eversman
Leafy greens are packed with essential nutrients for dogs, and your pooch will love these green pupsicles for St. Patrick’s Day and all year long.
INGREDIENTS
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1 cup chopped celery
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2 cups baby spinach
1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
1 cup water
Ice (optional)
3 pears, peeled and chopped
DIRECTIONS
1. In a blender, add spinach and water and blend until smooth. 2. Add all remaining fruit and vegetables. Blend for about 1 minute until smooth. 3. Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or ice cube tray. 4. Freeze for 3 hours or overnight until firm. Pro Tip – You can also freeze half of the mixture and the rest can be enjoyed as smoothies right away. If you are making a smoothie, add a bit of ice to the blender before serving and blend just enough to break the ice apart. This will cool down the mixture that you can pour right into your pup’s bowl!
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