The Science of Purring: Why Cats Do It and What It Really Means

The feline purr is a quirk that cat owners marvel over and admire. The comforting, familiar sound of a cat purring is mysterious, though, and leaves many of us with questions. We may not know everything about cat purring, but Volunteer Veterinary Hospital has some answers to many of your questions regarding this incredible cat behavior. 

How Cats Purr

The sound of a purring cat is like nothing else. It seems like they might have an organ specifically to emit the sound of a purr, but this is not at all the case. 

Many theories have been thrown out there as to how cats create a purr. While we don’t have a final answer at present, it does seem that purring in cats occurs by adjusting the musculature in the back of the throat. As these throat muscles contract around the structures surrounding the vocal cords, they change the flow of air, yielding a purring sound.

Thoughts on Purring

Even less clear than how cats purr is why they do it. There are a few thoughts on what purring really accomplishes in the feline world, though, including: 

• Purring to communicate —Tiny kittens start purring at just a few days of age. They are communicating and helping their mother to locate them. Later in life, cats may purr to solicit food, when exploring, or when they feel a little anxious. Cats have been noted to have a different purr when communicating with humans. The frequency of this purr seems to more match those of an infant’s cries. 
• Social interactions  — Cats often purr when grooming one another or when bonding. This purring behavior seems to be soothing or reassuring. 
• Healing powers — The frequency of a cat’s purr is 25-150 Hz. Interestingly, this frequency has been shown to encourage bone growth and promote healing of soft tissues. Purring while resting may be the feline way of recovering and healing. 
• Stress management  — Cats often purr in stressful or painful situations. This is thought to be a self-soothing mechanism, causing the release of endorphins that reduce pain and stress. 

It’s a common myth that cats only purr when they’re happy. In reality, purring likely serves multiple purposes. Understanding the context of your cat’s purring can help you better care for their physical and emotional needs.

Purring and Cat Owners

Did you know that your cat’s purr can positively impact your health as well? Studies have shown that owning a cat and being exposed to their purring can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke by up to one-third. The calming effect of a purr is just one of the many ways our feline friends enrich our lives.

While purring is often associated with a happy cat, it can indicate distress or pain. If your cat is purring but also displaying signs of illness, such as lethargy, decreased appetite, or unusual behavior, it’s important to contact us so that we can evaluate. 

Your relationship with your cat is special. The power of the purr just adds to the magic that is cat ownership. At Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you keep that magic, from routine wellness care to diagnosing potential health issues. If you have questions or concerns about your kitty, don’t hesitate to ask.