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Look, cats are so easily misunderstood! Similar to meowing, chirping, and trilling, cats use purring as a form of self-expression. The reason behind a cat’s purring is fascinating, to say the least. It acts as a way for cats to communicate a range of feelings beyond just being happy, and we will explore them further here. Passed down from their wild ancestors, such as bobcats and lynxes, purring cats are unable to roar like tigers or lions.
The true reason why cats started purring remains uncertain; one suggestion is that mother cats use purring to mask the sound of their kittens’ cries from predators or to keep them near, as kittens are born both deaf and blind.
Some suggest kittens begin purring within days of birth to help their mothers find them.
For example, if you’ve ever seen a mother cat with her newborn kittens, you might have noticed how she purrs softly while they snuggle against her. This gentle sound reassures them and helps them feel safe in their environment.
Apart from the above-mentioned reason, these days domestic cats purr in several situations, including:
- When feeling happy: Have you ever wondered why do cats purr when you pet them? Well, that is their way of telling you that they are loving it. Purring during petting is similar to a feline grin, showing their contentment.
- When they’re hungry: A cat may mix a purr with a meow to indicate they need food, similar to a baby’s cry.
- When injured or unwell: When a cat is not feeling well you may hear them purring. Purring can act as a soothing tool, and research suggests the vibrations might aid healing.
- When under stress: The gentle vibration of a purr can help cats calm themselves and regulate their breathing. You might have heard them for example at vet, when they are trying to soothe their nerves in an unfamiliar place.
So, what Does It Mean When your Cat Purrs?
Now that we understand purring is primarily a method of cats’ communication, recognizing different types of purrs can be helpful. Some vibrations convey happiness and explain why cats purr when being petted, while others might indicate healing, anxiety, or self-soothing. The key emotional reasons behind purring include:
Expressing Love
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Have you ever petted a cat and then they started purring? Well, that is because they feel safe and loved. Purring is their way of returning your affection, and they might accompany it with behaviors like licking, head-butting, or kneading, which are all adorable signs of their bond with you. Feeling content in your presence may also explain why they purr so loudly.
Seeking Attention
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Since cats can produce various types of purring, not just any purr. According to Sheba, when your cat mixes purring with a tiny cry, you’ll know they’re trying to catch your attention and express their immediate need. If the purr sounds more urgent or high-pitched, it often signals mealtime, a desire to go outside, or another specific request. Do you know that one time when your cat would sit next to the door and purr softly? Well, that was their way of telling you to let them outside.
Promoting Healing
Did you know that continuous purring generates vibrations that can reduce stress hormones and blood pressure? These factors also aid in healing injuries such as muscle strains, wounds, or even fractures. Studies have also observed that cats with breathing problems may purr to help themselves breathe easier. So, in case your cat gets injured you may hear them purring more often since it is all part of their recovery process.
Coping With Anxiety
Steady purring also helps cats relax in stressful moments, such as facing a new environment or an unfamiliar animal. Purring in these situations can also trigger the release of calming chemicals called endorphins, which supports the belief that purring originates in the brain as an emotional response. Just as we touched briefly in the example with the vet.
Why Do Cats Purr When You Pet Them?
Cats tend to purr loudly when you stroke them to express their contentment and show how relaxed they feel, similar to how a dog wags its tail. This reciprocation of affection is especially meaningful when your cat actively seeks attention. It is somewhting they do when they want human contact—something particularly valued by independent cats.
Why Do Cats Purr and Then Bite?
Cats, in particular, have been known to purr and then suddenly bite while being petted, which can leave their owners puzzled. Many believe that cats do this because they become overstimulated, so it’s best not to take it personally.
While there may not be a definite answer, some experts suggest that constant stroking can create static electricity, which might result in a small shock, leading to their sudden reaction. Others believe that biting is simply a way for cats to set boundaries and communicate that they’ve had enough petting.
That being said, some cats may genuinely enjoy prolonged petting sessions without ever showing signs of irritation. In fact, recognizing when a cat has reached its limit can help prevent bites and make interactions more enjoyable for both you and your feline companion.
“Understanding a cat’s signals—like tail flicks or ear twitches—can be a great way to avoid overstimulation,” says pet behaviorist Dr. Bloom. Of course, giving your cat a little space when they signal for it certainly never hurts.
Are Cats Really Happy When They Purr?
Just like us, cats have their own way of expressing emotions—we just need to pay attention to it. On the other side, when trying to understand their purring, you can focus on their body language and the surrounding context, explains NOCO Humane. Pay attention to whether they purr when they’re hungry, anxious, or even trying to comfort themselves when they are in pain or distress. So, why do cats purr when you pet them ? Well, you might find that your cat’s purring isn’t always about happiness but sometimes a way to soothe themselves in unfamiliar situations.
How Do Cats Make a Purring Sound?
Purring originates from a ‘neural oscillator’ within a cat’s brain, which transmits signals to the muscles surrounding the larynx. These muscles contract rapidly, generating vibrations at a frequency of 25 to 150 vibrations per second (Hz). As the cat breathes in and out, the air passing over the vibrating muscles creates the distinctive purring sound. According to animal behavior expert Dr. Karen Overall, this process is akin to “opera singing for cats.” Purring can sometimes be so faint that it is felt more as a subtle vibration rather than an actual sound. The rhythmic sound of purring can also have a calming effect on humans, making it a mutually beneficial experience for both cats and their owners.
Understanding the Complexity of Cat Purring
As you might have understood by now the question “Why do cats purr is quite complicated.” Although we may agree with author Jonathan Payne, who once wrote that “there’s nothing more peaceful than a sleeping, purring cat,” the unique feline vibrato is a multi-dimensional form of communication. The meaning of a purr can range from showing affection to signaling distress or pain, making it crucial to interpret the sound within the right context. Becoming more familiar with your cat’s body language—such as understanding different tail positions or the reason behind flattened ears—can help you tune in to what they’re feeling.
Of course, no matter how much we learn about cats, their true charm will always be their air of mystery.