Social Psychiatry Blog

Why Do Cats Purr?

When it comes to knowing why cats purr, people offer up a number of different opinions. In most cases when people hear a cat purring they will automatically assume that this is because the cat is content. Certainly anyone who has the opportunity to allow a purring cat to sit on their lap will find the sound and the vibrations of it extremely comforting.

But what you may not realise is that there are other reasons why cats like to purr and below we take a look at just what these are. When it comes to cats purring they are able to do so from day two of their lives. The amazing thing is, when a kitten is feeding they are actually able to purr at the same time. But when feeding, it is completely impossible for them to meow as well. As with all sounds that cats make, when they purr it is because they are trying to communicate with others. It is not just the domestic cats that can purr, either. A number of the larger wild cats such as mountain lions and pumas also have the ability to purr as well

When a kitten purrs it is often a sign that they are happy with their lives. However, when around humans they can use it as decoy. Some kittens may purr as they cuddle up towards you, but be prepared when they suddenly decide it will be far more fun to try and bite you instead.

Unbelievably, one of the other chief reasons cats purr is to suggest fear or to let it be known they are unwell. Cats in feral situations have also been known to purr to communicate to another cat that they are submissive to it and will not be aggressive. Domestic cats may also do a similar thing.

Purring may also be used as a pain and stress reliever while a mother gives birth to a litter of kittens, as well as communicating reassurance and comfort towards her newborns. Studies have shown that cats will purr when they are close to death, creating a euphoric state of mind to reduce fear and anxiety. Contrarily, purring near death may also suggest anxiety.

Another theory for why cats purr has recently come to light. The latest theory suggests that cats purr as a result of the release of endorphins (morphine like substances) from the brain. These substances are often released not only when the cat is happy but also if they are in pain. So as a result being able to clearly explain why a cat purrs at a particular time is proving so difficult.

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