Why Cats Purr? – Know The 6 Reasons for Cats Purring

Purring is the most common thing a cat does. A cat purrs at each other and mostly to the owners. But have you ever wondered why cats purr? 

Well, the scientists are not totally sure why the cats purr, but there are some probable reasons. Most experts suggest that purring is a way of communication for cats. They purr whenever they are happy and content. Of course, there are many more theories behind a cat’s purring. 

If you are interested in a cat’s purr, then give this article a read. You will get to know why a cat purrs, and how the feline does it. 

What is Cat Purring?

Cat’s purring is an emotional response of the pet. Purring is actually a sound that the feline creates. 

You will be surprised to know that a cat does not have any special apparatus in its body for purring. So, how do cats purr? A purring of a cat involves two muscles, the larynx, and the diaphragm. 

The rapid movement of the larynx or the voice box combines with the diaphragm’s movement to create the noise. The diaphragm is the muscles located at the base of the chest cavity. Those muscles need to move 25 to 30 times to generate the purring noise. 

In short, a cat breathes, air touches the voice box or the vibratory muscles and produces the purring sound. The purr of each cat is different. Some cats can produce a high-pitched purr, where others generate a low rumble. Even some cats purr in such a low voice that you need to be close to the cat to hear the sound. 

Reasons Why Cats Purr:

There are some probable reasons why a cat is purring. From the condition, voice, and surroundings, you can tell what your cat wants. Let’s explore the reasons: 

1. Most of the time, a cat purrs when it is happy. If your pet is on its back, has half-closed eyes, and purring, then your cat is related and content. 

The feline is feeling safe and secure. The purring will sound like a smile. When you notice your cat purring because of a happy mood, stroke the pet. This will make the cat more relaxed and comfortable. 

2. A cat purrs when it is hungry or wants something from you. British research assured that cats could purr when food is on their mind, and they are not getting it. Also, if the felines want something, they will draw attention by purring. 

This purr sound will be different from the one a cat makes when it is happy. Experienced owners claim that this purring sound comes along with an unpleasant cry. 

3. Purring can be an expression of anger, anxiety, or fear. Cat purring loudly with growling, hissing, or spitting, indicates that the cat is mad at something. 

However, a new environment can make your cat stressed and anxious. In that case, your feline can often purr. If you think the cat is stress or angry, leave him alone for some time. You can try petting the cat if it does not bite or react. 

4. A sick or ill cat often purrs. When a cat is in pain, it purrs to draw the attention of the owner. Purring can give the feline some relief. This purr is more heartbreaking and sounds more like a cry for help. 

5. Purring can indicate the mother kitten relationship. A kitten learns to purr when it is a few days old. The baby will purr to assure its position, or it is safe. 

However, sometimes, the mother cat also purrs at the kitten. Some owners believe that this purring is a lullaby. The mother cat tries to make the kitten sleep with this warming sound. 

6. You may not know, but purring has healing power. The purring soothes the cat and makes it relax for a while. Researchers suggest that purring can help a sick cat get well faster. 

Actually, the purring generates a series of vibrations throughout the body. This can have some health advantages for the cat. For example, 

• The cat will find it easier to breathe in and breathe out.
• The purring can heal bones and any other wounds.
• The purring sound lessens the cat’s pain.
• If there is any swelling in a cat’s body, purring can heal it. 
• Purring has the power to build muscles and repair tendons. 

These are the reasons why cats purr when it is in pain.

Does Cat’s Purring Help Humans? 

You will be surprised to know that a cat’s purring can help humans. We all know that owning a cat can relieve the owner’s stress and anxiety. It is not because the cat is cute, you can cuddle it, and the pet entertains you. The actual reason is the cat creates a positive effect on our lives. 

A statistic indicates that the cat owners’ heart attack rate is 40% less than the non-owners. Again, the cat owners have a normal blood pressure rate. Some owners have claimed that their anxiety and stress gets reduced after hearing the purring noise of their cats. 

The purring of a cat has a magical power of calm and peace. However, some people believe that the purring of a cat can help with migraines. Though it is not scientifically proved, this is accepted by many people. 

Why do cats purr and knead?

Now you know the probable reasons why a cat purrs. But have you noticed your cat purring and kneading at the same time? 

Yes, this can happen more often. Generally, a cat kneads when it is feeling safe and secured. If the kneading of the cat comes with a purr, it means the cat is returning the love. Whenever your cat does this, try petting it to feel more loved.

Happiness, pain, or anger, there can be many reasons why cats purr. Each human has the ability to understand what a feline is trying to say if he listens carefully. Always try to spend time with your pet cat to understand its language of communication.

Related: How Do Cats Purr? – The Meaning And Mechanism Of A Cats Purr