Have you ever wondered why cats purr so contentedly? Let’s discover together! While there are many good guesses, one thing we all know is that the soothing sound is more than just a sign of happiness. Most people observe that cats purr when they’re pleased and feeling good. However, cats also purr when they are hungry, injured, or frightened. In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into why cats purr, exploring both the causes and the fascinating reasons behind this behaviour.

How Do Cats Purr?

Cats purr through their larynx and diaphragm muscles both as they inhale and exhale, and a neural oscillator in the brain. As the cat breathes, air moves through the vibrating muscles and creates a purr sound. This happens during both exhaling and inhaling. These rapid muscle movements cause vibrations throughout the cat’s body, which can only be felt while the cat is purring.

A typical cat’s purr falls within the range of 25 to 150 hertz (Hz). Most cats purr within the same frequency range, but some cats have slight variations due to factors like age, health, and mood.

Reasons Why Cats Purr

Happiness is just one factor. Let’s see what can be the various reasons behind a cat’s purr.

Contentment and Relaxation

This is the most common reason for cats purring. When the cat is being petted, sitting in a warm spot, or having quality time with their favourite human, they often purr as a sign of their comfort and relaxation. This enhances and strengthens the bond between cats and owners, providing good companionship.

Self-Soothing

Many studies suggest that purring may have therapeutic benefits for cats. The rumbling frequency starts within a range that can promote bone healing and growth. This provides a sense of calmness to cats and an atmosphere of comfort. In times of stress and anxiety, self-soothing works best for providing comfort and relaxation.

Communication

Purring isn’t just a sign of happiness but also a form of communication. Most cats use this when they seek or want attention from their owners or when they are hungry. Even kittens start purring when they are just a few days old, which helps them communicate with their mother. This helps strengthen their bond with their mothers.

Stressful Situations

Cats also start purring when they are frightened or anxious. This can be difficult to digest, but purring helps provide the cat relaxation during times of stress and anxiety. This stress can arise during vet visits or unexpected events. The vibrations arising during purring can stimulate the cat’s bones and muscles in the healing process.

Social Bonding

Purring acts as an important part of social interactions among cats. It can be a way for cats to communicate with each other, ensuring that they pose no threat to each other. It is like sign language through which cats respond accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the sound of cat purring so soothing?

Various studies show that cat purring holds therapeutic properties that help and heal humans. The vibrations produced by purring have the capacity to reduce blood pressure, and stress, and help in the process of healing.

Why do cats rub against you while purring?

It is observed that most cats often rub against you while purring. It is usually to show affection towards human action. Most cats often lick their owners to show affection.

Can cats sense the sadness of humans?

Yes, cats can sense sadness when humans are in stress or feeling low due to some situation.

Do cats purr only while they are happy? Is it a myth or fact?

It is a myth. Cats purr for different reasons, which we have talked about in this blog.

Why Cats Purr: Exploring the Hidden Reasons