Why Do Cats Purr?

You’re sitting on the couch when your cat climbs up into your lap, curls into a ball, and begins to purr. There’s nothing more soothing than a cat’s rhythmic purr, and most people recognize purring as a sign that a cat is happy. But that’s not always the case. Let’s take a look at why cats purr.

The Unknown Reasons for Purring

In truth, scientists don’t entirely know the reasons for purring. Cats purr in many different situations, and it’s possible that there are reasons for purring that we haven’t even discovered yet. However, scientists have come up with a few potential reasons for why cats purr.

Self-Soothing

Purring may be your cat’s way to soothing himself. Cats purr when they are stressed and anxious – have you ever heard your cat purring while you’re bringing him to the vet? Purring may help a cat to relax himself and better cope with stressful, unpleasant situations.

Because cats purr when they’re stressed, you can’t assume that a purring cat is a happy cat. If your cat purrs when you pick him up, it could mean that he is stressed, or it could mean that he is happy. You will need to pay attention to your cat’s body language and posture in order to determine just what your cat is feeling at the time.

Healing

Purring may be a healing therapy for cats. Scientists have discovered that cats purr at the same frequency at which bones heal. It’s entirely possible that purring can help to promote healing in your cat’s body, so purring may be a response to pain or discomfort. If you find that your cat is wounded and purring, then you need to be careful when approaching him. Your cat’s purring does not indicate happiness in this case, and injured cats may be highly fearful of you, even when you’re trying to help. If you need to move an injured cat, it is best to wrap the cat in a thick towel before attempting to move him.

Communication

Purring also appears to be a method of communication for cats. Purring can indicate that a cat is happy and wants the current situation to remain the same. If your cat crawls into your lap and starts to purr, that’s a clear sign that he wants to stay in your lap. Cats also purr when they want something. Have you ever woken up to your cat standing by the edge of your bed, purring in anticipation of his breakfast? Cats may purr to get a response from humans or from other cats.

As we continue to learn more about cats, it’s possible that we will discover more or different reasons for purring.