Introduction
Cat purring is a mysterious yet adorable behavior that most cat owners are familiar with. When cats purr, they produce a low, rhythmic, vibrating sound that may convey contentment, happiness, or comfort. But purring is actually much more complex than simply signaling a cat’s emotional state.
Recent research suggests that a cat’s purr may play several important roles related to feline health and wellbeing. Studies indicate that purring may promote healing and tissue regeneration, strengthen bones, communicate with other cats, and show positive emotional states. Some experts even believe a cat’s purr has a “healing frequency” that provides therapeutic effects.
In this article, we’ll explore what purring is, the possible functions it serves for cats, and what purring may indicate about a cat’s physical and emotional health. We’ll also look at how to encourage healthy purring and when purring could signify illness or discomfort instead of contentment.
What is Purring?
Purring is a unique vocalization that domestic cats make by rapidly contracting their laryngeal and diaphragmatic muscles. This creates a soft, rhythmic, vibrating sound during both inhalation and exhalation 1. Cat purring often occurs when a cat is content and relaxed, such as when being petted or sitting on a human’s lap. However, cats may also purr during times of distress, indicating that purring serves multiple purposes beyond just conveying happiness.
Unlike meowing or many other cat vocalizations, purring does not involve the vocal cords. Instead, cats produce purrs through rapid twitching of the vocal folds and vibrating actions of their soft palate and diaphragm muscles 2. This allows cats to purr continuously during inhaling and exhaling, creating the unique rumbling sound.
Possible Functions of Purring
There are several theories as to why cats purr. Some key possible functions include:
- Communication – Cats may purr to communicate with other cats as well as humans. Kittens purr to let their mother know they’re doing well. Purring may be a friendly greeting or a request for food or attention. (New Scientist)
- Healing – Purring creates vibrations at a frequency that promotes bone density and healing. The frequencies may help healing after injury or illness by stimulating cells to regenerate. (WebMD)
- Self-soothing – Cats often purr when distressed, which may release endorphins that have a calming effect. The act of purring may provide comfort and reassurance. (New Scientist)
While the exact reasons are still being researched, evidence points to purring having multiple benefits for both communication and health in cats.
Purring and Physical Health
Research has shown that a cat’s purring may provide various benefits for physical health. The vibrations emitted during purring can actually promote healing through the stimulation of bone growth and repair. Studies reveal that purring frequencies can improve bone density and treatment of fractures and osteoporosis in humans (see the research here: Cat Purr Healing Power: Benefits For You And Your Pet).
The vibrational frequencies produced by purring have also been shown to provide natural pain relief. Cat owners often report that their cats will purr when they are in pain or recovering from injuries, suggesting the purring helps alleviate their discomfort. Researchers theorize the vibrations may block or reduce pain signals transmitted to the brain (see more: The Therapeutic Benefits Of A Cat’s Purr).
In addition, studies indicate that cat purring can help open up airways and improve breathing. The sound frequencies may play a role in maintaining respiratory health and function. This effect has been observed in cats purring to self-soothe respiratory ailments as well as in humans exposed to purr vibrations. Overall, emerging research points to purring as a potential source of therapeutic effects for various aspects of physical health and wellbeing.
Purring and Emotional Health
Purring is often associated with positive emotional states and comfort in cats. When cats purr during interactions with their owners or while being petted and stroked, it is generally believed to indicate contentment, affection, and trust (Why Do Cats Purr). The rhythmic vibration and sound of a cat’s purr during these interactions can have a soothing, calming effect on both the cat and on the human receiving the cat’s affections.
Purring may also serve as a signaling mechanism for soliciting care and attention from human caretakers. Cats have evolved to purr in a frequency range that elicits a nurturing response in humans, similar to the crying of a human baby. When a cat purrs, it triggers a caregiving instinct in people and promotes social bonding and attachment between cats and their owners (Healing Purrs).
In addition, the act of purring itself produces endorphins in cats that can reduce stress and provide comfort. The self-soothing effects of purring may calm cats in situations that would otherwise create anxiety, such as visits to the veterinarian or introductions to new environments. Purring can therefore signify relaxation and contentment even in potentially stressful contexts.
When Purring May Indicate Illness
While purring often signals a happy, content cat, there are some exceptions when this soothing sound may actually indicate your cat is unwell or in distress. In these cases, purring seems to serve as a self-soothing mechanism for the cat.
Purring can be a sign of illness or pain if accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, appetite loss, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits. According to veterinary experts, cats may purr more when sick as a way to comfort themselves, release endorphins, and ease anxiety 1. So look out for cats who seem ill or distressed while purring.
Cats also sometimes purr while exhibiting signs of pain or discomfort, such as when being examined by a vet. The combination of purring and body language indicating pain, such as flattened ears, a tucked tail, or trembling, could mean your cat is unwell 2.
In addition, senior cats or cats with terminal illnesses may purr excessively as part of their end-of-life comfort seeking behavior. So consult your vet if your older cat suddenly seems to purr more 3.
While purring is normal for healthy, happy cats, be attentive if it occurs alongside other concerning symptoms. Contact your veterinarian promptly about purring accompanied by changes in behavior or appetite to determine if illness is present.
Measuring Feline Health
While purring can indicate contentment, there are other important signs to look for when assessing your cat’s health. According to Wellness Pet Food, indicators of good feline health include:
- Good grooming habits and a shiny, healthy coat
- Bright, clear eyes free of discharge
- Good appetite and energy levels
- Proper weight and body condition
- Regular bathroom habits
- Relaxed mood and comfort seeking behaviors like napping and kneading
You should also watch for any changes in behavior like increased vocalization, restlessness, or hiding – as these may signal an underlying issue. Regular vet checkups and weighing your cat monthly can identify problems early. Overall, a happy, playful cat with good hygiene, appetite, and energy is likely in good health.
How to Encourage Purring
There are several ways you can encourage your cat to purr more through stimulation and bonding. Playing with your cat using interactive toys like feather wands or laser pointers is a great way to get them excited and stimulated, which often leads to purring. Gently petting or scratching them in places they enjoy, like under the chin, cheeks, and base of the tail can also help relax your cat and induce purring. According to experts, paying close attention to your cat’s unique likes and dislikes and providing affection during their preferred times, such as when they curl up near you, can lead to more frequent purring.
You can also try using food treats to positively reinforce purring. Give your cat a treat when they purr to encourage this behavior. Brushing or grooming your cat, talking softly to them, carrying them around, or sitting nearby can help them feel comfortable enough to purr more often. Getting on your cat’s level, maintaining eye contact, blinking slowly, and responding when they purr are other ways to build trust and get them purring. Overall, be patient, attentive, and affectionate with your cat according to their unique personality and preferences to create an enriching environment that brings out their natural tendency to purr.
Potential Concerns and Risks
While purring is generally a positive sign of health and contentment in cats, excessive or constant purring could potentially indicate an underlying health issue. Some concerns and risks associated with over-purring include:
Pain or illness – Cats may purr more when they are in pain or sick as a self-soothing mechanism, so increased purring could be a sign of injury, infection, or other medical problems. Look for other signs like lack of appetite, lethargy, or changes in litter box habits (1).
Stress or anxiety – Constant purring may indicate a stressed or anxious cat trying to self-comfort. Watch for tense body language, hiding, or aggression as other clues (2).
Hyperthyroidism – Excessive vocalization like loud or constant purring can suggest hyperthyroid disease. Blood tests can check thyroid levels if this is suspected.
Cognitive dysfunction – Increased vocalization can also be a sign of feline cognitive dysfunction or dementia in older cats. Other symptoms may include disorientation, house soiling, and changes in sleep-wake cycles.
While worrying purring patterns warrant veterinary examination, most excessive purring is normal and suggests a content, healthy cat. Tracking any changes in purring can help owners distinguish usual behavior from more concerning vocalizations.
Conclusion
In summary, purring is a complex feline behavior that can indicate various states of cat health and wellbeing. While purring is often a sign of contentment and comfort in cats, it can also occur when a cat is injured, sick, or dying, seemingly acting as a self-soothing mechanism during times of duress. Measuring other vital signs and indicators is important for assessing a cat’s health status and not relying solely on purring. The takeaway is that increased purring is generally a positive sign, especially when paired with other behaviors like kneading and relaxed body language, but should not be the only factor used to determine if a cat is completely healthy. Paying attention to changes in purring patterns as well as a cat’s environment, diet, and activity levels provides a more complete picture of their wellbeing.