For many cat parents, kneading is a daily dose of sweetness. But for one mom-to-be, the comforting “biscuits” took on a whole new meaning when her unborn baby decided to join in.
A Magical Midnight Moment
TikTok user @brownsfam, already a mom of two with a third on the way, shared a clip on August 19 that quickly stole millions of hearts.
The video shows her two cats perched on her belly, calmly kneading their paws against her baby bump. Just as they settle into their rhythm, the bump kicks back—the unborn baby boy’s way of saying hello to his feline siblings.
The overlay read: “POV: You’re woken up to your cats doing this while your baby boy kicks them back.”
The heartwarming video has now been watched over 3.3 million times and liked more than 370,000 times.
Internet Reacts: From Laughter to Awe
TikTok viewers rushed to share their own experiences:
- “I’m 37 weeks and this happened with my two fur babies. My human baby must have thought he was getting jumped—he was kicking with all his might!”
- “My cat used to lay on my belly purring and the babies would start kicking. It’s the sweetest thing.”
- “They know you’re pregnant. They’re bonding with your baby.”
Others added a playful twist: “They just think you’re gonna have a litter and they’re massaging you.”
The Science (and Mystery) Behind Kneading
Kneading—often called “making biscuits”—is an instinctive behavior cats learn as kittens when they stimulate their mother’s milk flow. Many continue into adulthood as a way to self-soothe, relax, or show affection.
But why the special focus on baby bumps?
Dayne Adams, a registered nurse and maternity photographer, explained to Newsweek that their studio cat often kneads on pregnant bellies. Cats may be drawn to:
- Hormonal changes that subtly alter scent.
- Increased body heat around the abdomen.
- Instinctive nurturing energy radiating from the mom-to-be.
“There’s a good chance they’re picking up on the changes and responding in kind,” Adams said. “Maybe it’s science. Maybe it’s instinct. But after what we’ve seen, I wouldn’t bet against a cat’s intuition.”
Safety Note for Expectant Moms
Some commenters raised concerns about toxoplasmosis, a parasite cats can carry that poses risks during pregnancy. The CDC estimates 40 million Americans are infected, though most healthy people never notice symptoms. Pregnant women, however, are advised to avoid cleaning litter boxes and to practice good hygiene when handling pets.
As for kneading itself, experts say the behavior is harmless—and often a sign of trust and affection.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
Whether it’s pure instinct, science, or sibling bonding before birth, this viral moment shows once again just how deeply cats connect with their families—even the tiniest members who haven’t yet arrived.
FAQ
Q: Why do cats knead on people?
Cats knead as a leftover kitten instinct. It makes them feel secure and is a way to show affection or create comfort.
Q: Can cats sense pregnancy?
There’s no solid proof, but experts believe cats may pick up on hormonal changes, scent shifts, or new routines—making them unusually attentive to expectant moms.
Q: Is it safe for pregnant women to live with cats?
Yes. The main precaution is avoiding litter box cleaning due to toxoplasmosis risk. Otherwise, cats can remain safe companions throughout pregnancy.
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