Inappropriate Purring in Cats: Causes and What to Do
Purring is often a sign of a happy and content cat, producing one of the most pleasant and soothing sounds for cat lovers. However, cats sometimes purr at unusual times, such as when they are sick, injured, or stressed. This behaviour, known as inappropriate purring, can indicate that your cat is experiencing discomfort or distress.
This guide will help you understand purring in cats, how to recognise inappropriate purring, identify possible causes, and what steps you can take to support your cat’s wellbeing.
What is Purring?
Purring is produced by air flowing over the vocal folds in a cat’s larynx, causing vibrations on both inhalation and exhalation. Each cat has a unique purring sound, which varies in tone and intensity depending on the situation. Typically, cats purr to communicate pleasure, comfort, or to calm themselves down as they settle to sleep. The soothing sound benefits not only the purring cat but also others around them.
Understanding Inappropriate Purring
Inappropriate purring happens when a cat purrs during times of stress, pain, or illness rather than contentment. Cats use purring as a self-soothing mechanism to relieve anxiety and discomfort. This may also help mask loud external noises like fireworks, reducing their overall stress.
Interestingly, female cats often purr during labour to ease the birthing process and keep both themselves and their kittens calm.
How to Recognise Inappropriate Purring
It can be surprising for owners to hear their cat purring when the animal appears unwell or anxious. To determine if your cat's purring is appropriate:
- Observe their body language. Relaxed cats usually purr happily while enjoying attention or comfort.
- Signs of inappropriate purring include a tense or hunched posture, attempts to hide, flattened ears, dilated pupils, or signs of distress.
- Purring triggered by stress or pain is relatively rare and usually accompanies other warning signs.
If the purring accompanies symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, or behavioural changes, it is important to take it seriously.
Common Causes of Inappropriate Purring
- Stress and Anxiety: Situations such as veterinary visits, loud noises, new environments, or changes at home can trigger stress purring.
- Illness or Injury: Cats often hide pain or sickness, but purring during these times may indicate internal discomfort or hidden injuries.
- Age-Related Discomfort: Older cats may purr more to soothe aches or discomfort linked to ageing.
- Environmental Stressors: Encounters with aggressive outdoor cats or household tension can contribute to stress-related purring.
What to Do If Your Cat is Inappropriately Purring
If you suspect your cat is purring due to stress or discomfort, consider the context and any other symptoms. Here are key steps to help your cat:
- Assess the Environment: Identify recent changes or stressors like noisy events or new pets. Minimising these can help.
- Observe for Other Symptoms: Look for changes in appetite, behaviour, toileting, or physical health.
- Provide Comfort and Safe Spaces: Create quiet, cosy areas where your cat can retreat and feel secure.
- Consult Your Vet: Always seek veterinary advice if the purring is accompanied by signs of illness, injury, or ongoing stress. Early detection can prevent worsening conditions.
Inappropriate Purring as an Early Warning Signal
Cats are adept at concealing illness, so inappropriate purring can serve as an important early warning sign your cat needs help. Even if other symptoms are subtle or not yet visible, recognising stress or pain through purring allows you to act promptly and ensure your cat’s health and happiness.
Always promote responsible ownership by regularly monitoring your cat’s behaviour and health, seeking timely veterinary support, and providing a loving, stable environment.
