Which it then uses to press against me and launch on it the next leg of its journey.

Update on cat:

Grew up a big and strong. Carbon copy in looks with the other cat but 4 lb heavier and still growing. The most snugliest cat I've ever had. It runs up my leg to my belly to my chest and slams its head on my jaw to get my head out of the way so it can shove its head into my neck and start sucking on my neck or my earlobe. Purring ferociously the whole time.