We all know and love the sound of a cat purring. It brings about that warm fuzzy feeling of contentment when you’re snuggling your pet, and you know they’re enjoying it just as much as you are. A happy cat makes for a happy human!
However, there’s more to a cat’s purr than you might think. In fact, purring can be indicative of both a positive and negative emotional state. Here is everything you need to know about your cat’s purr and what it means.
The ‘What’ and ‘How’ of Purring
First of all, let’s consider how cats purr. How do they make that sound?
Well, scientists suggest that purring begins in the brain (with a neural oscillator). It’s a voluntary action that occurs in the laryngeal muscles, making them twitch. When a cat begins to purr, these muscles move at the rate of 25 to 150 vibrations per second!
Animal behaviorist, Dr Karen Overall, compares these low vibrations to a kind of feline opera performance. But what are they performing for? What do these sounds mean, and why do cats make them?
There are a few different reasons why a cat will purr – let’s explore them.
The Happy Purr
The kind of purr we’re all familiar with is the purr of a happy, content, and affectionate kitty. Your cat will probably purr when you’re stroking them, tickling them under their chin, or snuggling on your lap. Positive purring like this can also be triggered by excitement for a meal or comfort from a calm environment or a warm spot in the sun.
This is exactly what it sounds like. Your cat is communicating to you that they’re happy and feeling good. You might even notice your cat headbutting you or nuzzling you as well. It’s a clear indication that they feel comfortable in your presence and they love being petted!
The Hungry Purr
Cats often purr when they’re eating or if they’ve just finished off a meal – this means they’re satisfied and enjoyed their food. However, an interesting cat fact is that if they haven’t eaten in a while, they might also purr to indicate that they’re ready to feast.
Your cat is a creature of habit and thrives on routine, so if you’ve missed a mealtime, best believe they’ll notice! Sometimes, cats will purr, often accompanied by a meow, to remind you when it’s time to eat.
Purring for Comfort and Healing
Purring can be functional as well as expressive. Studies have shown that a cat’s purr can aid in their healing process, lowering their stress hormones and blood pressure in order to help them feel better faster. If your cat has a cold, they might purr to ease it!
The low-frequency vibrations of purring have been said to help heal bones and wounds, build and repair tendons, ease breathing and reduce pain and inflammation. This makes their vocalizers a sort of built-in physical therapy for a cat in pain. It’s also interesting to note that some scientists believe that purring brings emotional comfort to both cats and their owners, proving that cats are good for our health!
Purrs of Communication
Sometimes, a kitty will purr simply as a unique form of cat socializing. You might notice that their purrs sound different at different times, which indicates different messages they’re trying to get across to you.
They might purr and meow to greet you with a happy “hello!” and walk between your legs when you get home from work. They might also purr as a way to persuade you to give them attention, feed them, or see to their needs. For example, your cat might sit at the door and purr if they want to be let outside or purr and chip beside their food bowl if they’re ready for their next meal.
Distressed and Anxious Purrs
Very few people realize that a cat’s purr can also be a sign of distress. The vibrations can be an indication of feline anxiety or show that your cat is upset by something, often alternating between the low vibrations and urgent meowing. You might notice your cat purring during a vet examination, traveling in the car, or even when they’re unwell.
This is because cats use their purring as a method of self-soothing and a coping mechanism for any anxiety they might be feeling. If you notice your cat purring in an unusual situation, monitor their body language and try to identify if they might be stressed.
Misconceptions About Purring
As you have learned, purring doesn’t undoubtedly mean your cat loves you and is happy, which is one of the most common misconceptions. While purring can definitely come from a happy, sleepy cat, it can also indicate that your pet is hungry, stressed out, or feeling unwell. This shows how important it is to read your cat’s body language to help you better understand their needs.
Purring means your cat is communicating, so you can take a look at their behavior to uncover the true meaning. Consider if they seem relaxed, playful, or distressed. Monitor too, if they’re running to the door or their food bowl when they purr. These signs will help you figure out what they’re saying so you can help them with what they need.
Do Other Cats Purr?
Interestingly, house cats aren’t the only felines who make use of these vocal vibrations. Some wild cats and even other animals can purr!
Other purring cats include bobcats and mountain lions, and some studies suggest that these cats who purr don’t have the right vocal structure to roar—and vice versa. Roaring big cats like tigers and lions are said to be unable to purr.
Some other interesting creatures that have purr-boxes are civets, mongooses, hyenas, and even raccoons!
