Purring is one of the most recognizable vocalizations of the domestic cat. It is neither good nor evil. We genuinely do not understand why cats purr.
We know that it is used to communicate emotions and needs—much like smiles, tail wags, and other animal positions. Purring may be one of the ways kittens communicate with their mother because they are born deaf and blind. Cats also purr to speak with one another. You can deduce why your feline companion purrs based on the context of each situation.
Why Does Cat Purr When You Stroke Them?
If you are curious why your cat purrs when stroked, it’s most likely because she’s relaxed. If she purrs while being held or in the presence of a stranger, she may be anxious.
Cats may even purr to assist themselves in resting or healing. This is why your cat may purr during pregnancy or in times of distress. If you observe a change in your cat’s behavior along with unusual purring, this may indicate that your cat is in pain and need to be seen by a veterinarian.
Experts refer to a high-pitched combination of purring and meowing as a “solicitation purr.” This most likely indicates that she desires attention or food. You may hear your cat use this purr to suggest that she is hungry for her next meal.
What Causes Cats to Purr?
Cats purr with the assistance of their larynx and diaphragm. Both muscles contract rapidly at approximately 20 to 30 times per second to vibrate the air passing through their bodies, creating an audible sound.
Purring is made possible by the size and density of the hyoid bone, located between the roof of the mouth or larynx and tongue. The flexibility of the bone is what enables the cat to purr during inhalation and exhalation.
Purrs range in volume from soft to loud and have varying connotations depending on how they are expressed. Particular cats purr more than others, while others purr incessantly.
Is Cat Purring Beneficial?
Purring has been shown to have healing and calming properties in cats. It could be a way for them or other cats to self-soothe and heal following physical or emotional trauma. Purring has been linked to feline healing in studies. Cat purrs occur at frequencies that precisely match those associated with various healing effects.
Cats purr at a frequency of 25 and 150 Hertz, which corresponds to the frequency humans heal—so cat purrs may benefit both felines and humans.
This frequency has various beneficial effects, including bone and muscle healing, decreased risk of heart disease, decreased blood pressure, and reduced dyspnea or shortness of breath.