There is nothing better than the sound of one of my feline fur babies letting out a familiar soft sounding vibration while I am petting them.
Purring is one of the most common sounds that our feline friends make on a consistent basis, yet there are numerous reasons as to why cats actually purr.
Some cats will rarely purr, while others seem to purr all the time. So let’s start with the science of how cats purr.
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How Do Cats Purr?
Simply put, there are internal muscles in the cat’s throat that controls the opening and closing of the space between their vocal cords.
This makes the purring sound commonly heard in cats. Purring essentially occurs during inhaling and exhaling.
Cats Purr When They Feel Safe and Content
One reason cats will purr is that they are content with life at that particular moment. Laying in a sunny spot, cuddling up on your lap, or cuddling up with another feline friend are all things that can induce purring.
And I’d argue that contentment is the most common reasons that cats purr.
Cats Purr When They Are New-Born Kittens
New-born kittens are also known to purr when just a couple of days old. They will purr, knead, and suckle while they are being nursed.
Usually, the mama cat will also purr in return while she is nursing her kittens. Purring also helps the bond between mother and kitten.
Cats Purr When They Want Something
Cats also purr when they want something. I have a cat that will purr while weaving and walking around my legs. Usually, he just wants to be held.
I also have another cat that will purr when I bring out the wet food or when she is hungry.
And then I have another cat who purrs as he is looking up at me while I’m sitting in my favorite chair. It is a known fact that cats will often purr just because they want something from you, whether that’s food or lap time.
Cats Also Purr When They Are Injured or Stressed Out
Sometimes cats will purr when they are injured. It has been said among science and veterinarian professionals that the vibration from purring can actually heal broken bones and pulled muscles in our feline furbabies.
And if you think about it, this makes a lot of sense if you consider that humans sometimes use devices that help heal with the use of vibration.
I have a cat who purrs on the way to the vet’s office, and I know for a fact that he is not content with going to a veterinarian appointment.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, there are a handful of reasons why your cat may purr. If your cat is sitting in your lap, he or she is probably content.
And if your cat purrs after getting hurt, she is probably using it as a healing mechanism.
If neither applies to you then you should first check their food dish. Your cat may just be hungry and waiting for you to feed them.
