Why Does Cat Start To Strecth. Typically, when a cat feels relaxed and comfortable, he will stretch his body, often exposing his most vulnerable parts. Scratching also acts as a form of stress relief, which explains why cats tend to scratch more when they are in distress.
Although this behavior is obsolete in captivity it still happens, which confuses cat owners. You two are sharing an intimate moment and it probably reminds him of when he cuddled or nursed with his mother, so he stretches out a paw. For example, you and your cat might be happily relaxing in front of the roaring fire, and then they might stretch out and roll over onto their back.