Why Do Cats Purr? Understanding Feline Purring Explained

Introduction to Cat Purring

For many cat lovers, the gentle sound of a cat purring is deeply comforting and familiar. But why do cats purr and how do they produce this unique sound even when asleep? Beyond signalling contentment, purring is a fascinating behaviour with multiple meanings in a cat's life, helping communication, healing, and social bonding.

How Cats Produce the Purring Sound

Cats, including all members of the feline family from domestic cats to lions and tigers, produce purring through the larynx (voice box) in a distinctive way. Unlike a simple miaow, purring consists of rapid bursts created by the quick opening and closing of the left and right vocal cords, stimulated by nerve impulses. Domestic cats typically purr between 25 and 150 vibrations per second while both inhaling and exhaling. The intensity often depends on how much the cat is stimulated, such as when being stroked or spoken to by a familiar person.

The Multiple Reasons Cats Purr

Contentment and Communication: Kittens start purring as young as one week old during feeding to communicate contentment to their mother. Adult cats use purring to express affection towards other cats and humans, signalling happiness, greeting, or social bonding. In multi-cat households, purring may be used by submissive cats to indicate playful intentions or appeasement towards the dominant feline.

Self-Soothing and Healing: Importantly, purring is not always a sign of happiness. Cats often purr when injured, ill, or anxious, suggesting it acts as a self-soothing mechanism. Scientific research shows the vibrations from purring can release endorphins that reduce pain and may even promote tissue healing and bone strength.

How Purring Benefits Humans

Many cats appear sensitive to their owners' emotions, purring more during times of distress. The vibrations from a purring cat placed near a painful area on a human have been found to reduce pain. Additionally, purring may help reduce raised blood pressure, especially in older people, and some settings like retirement homes have welcomed calm cats for their therapeutic presence.

Recognising Different Purring Contexts

Understanding the context of your cat's purring can help you respond to their needs effectively. A warm, relaxed cat purring while resting or being petted is likely content and happy. Conversely, if your cat purrs while appearing unwell or scared, they might be seeking comfort or signalling distress. Responsible cat ownership means being attentive to these signals and providing appropriate care, including veterinary advice when needed.

Conclusion: The Complex Language of Purring

Purring is a voluntary and versatile vocalisation cats use to express a range of feelings from pleasure and affection to pain relief and reassurance. This gentle sound connects cats to each other and to their human companions in a unique way. By recognising the different reasons behind your cat's purring, you can strengthen the bond and support their wellbeing with empathy and care.

For those considering adding a feline companion to their home, it is important to find kittens responsibly through reputable kitten breeders or adopt from shelters to promote ethical ownership and ensure a healthy, happy pet.