Why Do Cats Purr When You Pet Them?

How Do Cats Purr?

Purring is a complex process that involves the brain, the laryngeal muscles, the vocal cords, and the diaphragm.

The brain sends signals to the laryngeal muscles, which are located in the throat, and control the opening and closing of the vocal cords.

These signals cause the laryngeal muscles to twitch rapidly, creating tension and relaxation on the vocal cords.

The diaphragm, which is a muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavity and helps with breathing, also contracts and relaxes in sync with the laryngeal muscles.

When the cat breathes in and out, the air passes over the vibrating vocal cords, producing a low-frequency rumble that we hear as purring.

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Cats can purr while inhaling and exhaling, unlike other vocalizations that only occur during exhalation.

This allows them to purr continuously for long periods of time without interrupting their breathing. The frequency and intensity of purring can vary depending on the cat’s mood, health, and environment.

The average frequency of purring is around 25 to 150 Hz (vibrations per second), but some cats can purr at higher or lower frequencies.

The intensity of purring can also change depending on how much air the cat pushes through the vocal cords. Some cats purr louder than others, and some cats can even purr silently.

Why Cats Purr

Purring is a form of communication that cats use to convey different messages and emotions to other cats and humans.

Purring can indicate contentment, happiness, relaxation, and affection, but it can also signal stress, pain, fear, or hunger.

Cats can purr in various situations, such as when they are being petted, groomed, fed, or nursed by their mothers.

Kittens can purr as early as two days old, and they use purring to communicate and bond with their mothers and littermates.

Mother cats also purr to guide their kittens to their warmth and comfort, and to reassure them of their presence.

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Purring is not always a sign of positive emotions, however. Cats can also purr when they are injured, sick, or in distress. Purring in these cases may serve as a self-soothing mechanism, or as a way of asking for help or attention.

Purring can also be a sign of appeasement or submission, especially when a cat is facing a dominant or aggressive cat. Purring can help calm down a potential threat, or show that the cat is not a threat itself.

Why Do Cats Purr When They Are Happy and Relaxed?

The most common reason why your cats purr when they are happy and relaxed is to show their contentment and satisfaction. They are telling you that they enjoy your touch and your company and that they feel safe and comfortable with you.

Cats can also purr when they are happy in other situations, such as when they are cuddling with you or another cat, sleeping on your lap or bed, or grooming themselves or each other. These are all signs of happiness and well-being for cats, and purring can enhance their mood and calmness.

Why Do Cats Purr When They Are Stressed or Anxious?

You may be surprised to learn that your cat can also purr when they are stressed or anxious. Purring is not always a sign of happiness and relaxation, but sometimes a sign of coping and survival.

Another reason why cats purr when you pet them is to deal with stress or anxiety. They are telling you that they need your help and support and that they are feeling vulnerable and scared.

Cats can also purr when they are stressed in other situations, such as when they are in pain, sick, injured, or scared. These are all signs of distress and discomfort for cats, and purring can help them cope and endure.

Purring can also be a sign of appeasement or submission, especially when a cat is facing a dominant or aggressive cat. Purring can help calm down a potential threat, or show that the cat is not a threat itself.

Purring can also be a way for cats to calm themselves and seek comfort and reassurance. By purring, they are trying to soothe their nerves and ease their pain.

They are also seeking your attention and care, and hoping that you will comfort and protect them. Purring can also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers.

Why Do Cats Purr When They Are Hungry or Want Something?

Purring is not only a sign of emotions but also a sign of communication. Your cats purr when they need to communicate their needs or desires. They are telling you that they want something from you and that they are willing to be friendly and cooperative.

Cats can also purr when they are hungry in other situations, such as when they are waiting for food, begging for treats, or asking for attention.

These are all signs of hunger and neediness for cats, and purring can help them get your attention and sympathy. Cats can also combine purring with other vocalizations, such as meowing, chirping, or trilling, to make their requests more clear and urgent.

Purring can also be a way for cats to manipulate their human companions and get what they want. When your cat purrs, they are exploiting your natural response to their sound, which is to feel happy and relaxed.

They are also using your association of purring with positive emotions, such as contentment and affection, to make you more likely to comply with their demands.

Why Do Cats Purr When They Are Overstimulated or Agitated?

Sometimes your cats purr when you pet them to signal their displeasure or discomfort. They are telling you that they do not like what you are doing and that they want you to stop or change your behavior.

Cats can also purr when they are overstimulated in other situations, such as when they are being petted too much, too hard, or in the wrong places.

These are all signs of overstimulation and irritation for cats, and purring can help them cope and tolerate. Cats have different preferences and sensitivities when it comes to being petted, and some areas of their body, such as the belly, the tail, or the back, maybe more sensitive than others.

Some cats may also have a limit on how long or how often they want to be petted and may get bored or annoyed if you exceed their threshold.

Why Do Cats Purr When They Are Giving Birth or Nursing?

When cats purr during birth or nursing, it’s a multifaceted mechanism. Beyond the joy of welcoming new life, cats use purring as a tool for reproduction and maternal care.

When you pet a pregnant or nursing cat, the purring serves to strengthen the bond with you and others in their social group, creating a supportive environment for raising their kittens.

During labor, delivery, and feeding, the rhythmic vibrations of purring can help stimulate milk production, ensuring the well-being of their offspring.

This soothing hum also acts as a reassuring presence, calming both the mother and her kittens. Moreover, the sound of purring can serve as a protective measure, potentially masking the presence of vulnerable newborns from potential predators.

Conclusion

A cat’s purr is a fascinating language conveying feelings like happiness, distress, and even the complexities of reproduction and maternal care. Deciphering this rhythmic vibration involves paying attention to context and behavior.

Whether your cat purrs from joyous petting or during the intense labor of giving birth, each purr carries a unique message. Understanding these cues is key to building a deeper connection with your cat.

So, next time you hear that comforting hum, take a moment to observe and respond.

References

The impact of free-ranging domestic cats on wildlife of the United States – Nature Communications

The Social Lives of Free-Ranging Cats – MDPI Animals

Situational Analysis of Cat Ownership and Cat Caring Behaviors in a Community with High Shelter Admissions of Cats – MDPI Animals

Dog and cat pet population worldwide – Statista

Longevity and mortality in cats: A single institution necropsy study – National Institutes of Health