Did you know that a cat’s purring is one of the most soothing sounds in the world? We’re excited to share some really interesting facts with you about why cats purr. So, let’s get started and discover the secrets behind this feline behavior!
If you are a video enthusiast, we’ve got you covered! We created a video to go along with the article. Enjoy!
How do cats purr?
The adorable purr we love to hear from our feline friends actually starts in their brain. Yup, when a cat is petted or stroked gently, it triggers a signal from their brain to the muscles around their voice box. As the cat breathes in and out, the air flows through the vibrating muscles, causing the vocal cords to vibrate as well, which gives us that lovely purring sound. It’s like a little kitty “I’m happy” signal that warms our hearts!
Do all cats purr?
Maybe you wonder if all cats can purr. The answer is, well, almost! Domestic cats can purr. But big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards can’t produce that adorable purring sound. However, they can make other sounds that are just as impressive, like roaring!
Info
Here’s an interesting fact: cats that can purr are unable to roar, while cats that can roar are unable to purr! This is because of a tiny bone inside the vocal cords, which, in roaring cats, is a flexible ligament.
Did you know that cats aren’t the only ones who purr? Some other animals like genets, civets, mongooses, guinea pigs, raccoons, and hyenas can also purr.
Read more: 8 Large cat breeds (Video)
Why do cats purr?
Are you curious about why cats love to purr? Well, let’s explore the top 8 reasons together!
Happiness
When your furry little feline friend is curled up in your lap, purring away, it means they’re happy and content. They’re telling you, “I’m so comfortable and safe with you!”. And that adorable purring sound they make is like a big smile, they give to you.
Affection
When you give your furry friend some gentle pets, they start to purr as if to say “I’m loving this, keep it up!” It’s their way of showing how much they appreciate your affection.
Soothing in stress
Just like us, cats have their moments of stress. When they’re feeling a bit anxious or in pain, they have a unique way to calm themselves down. And can you guess what it is? They purr! Mother cats purr when they are in labor, to ease their pain. And you might have noticed your kitty purring when visiting the vet or during fireworks – that’s their way of comforting themselves.
Bonding
Purring is a way for cats to bond with their loved ones. Mama cat and her kittens use it to say, “I love you, let’s stick together!” And as they grow, cats continue to purr to show affection to their favorite humans.
As a location signal
Fun fact – did you know that newborn kittens are born blind and deaf? To find their Mama Cat, they follow the vibrations of her purr, which is like their very own GPS system guiding them to a cozy milk pitstop!
Communication
Cats have their own language, and purring is one of the ways they communicate with humans and other cats. When little kittens purr loudly, it’s their way of helping their mom find them. And when your furry friend is feeling hungry, they’ll let you know with lots of purring, chirping, meowing, and rubbing against your legs. Don’t you just love their way of saying, “Hey, I’m hungry. Feed me, please!”?
When they are in heat
When cats are looking for a mate, they make all kinds of adorable sounds. Some might purr softly to show their interest in the most charming way imaginable.
When you are sick or stressed
Cats’ purring isn’t just music to our ears. It’s a healer too! Spending time with a purring cat can actually lower stress and blood pressure, and even help with pain relief. Did you know that the frequency of a cat’s purr (between 25 and 150 hertz) can help increase bone density and speed up healing if you have a broken bone? That’s pretty awesome, right?
So, the next time you’re feeling a bit down or stressed, snuggle up with your furry friend and let the magic of purring work its wonders
Final thoughts
That gentle sound is more than just cute – it’s actually their way of expressing love, comfort, and happiness! Take a moment to appreciate these sweet moments with your furry friend. They’re a reminder of the special bond you share and the joy that pets bring to our lives.
