Last Updated on March 4, 2025 by Cat Mad
Cats are fascinating creatures, and one of the most intriguing sounds they make is their purr. It’s a noise that many of us associate with contentment, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Whether your cat purrs when you’re petting them, when they’re curled up in a sunny spot, when they’re anxious, or your cat isn’t purring at all, understanding the reasons behind this vocalisation can help strengthen your bond with your feline friend. In this article, we’ll dive into the science of cat purring, the different reasons cats purr, and how to interpret it in different contexts.
1. Reasons Cats Purr
Expression of Contentment
One of the most common reasons cats purr is to show contentment. If your cat purrs while curled up on your lap or being gently petted, it’s usually a sign that they feel happy and relaxed. Cats have a remarkable ability to purr when they’re comfortable, and this behaviour is often linked to positive experiences.
Examples:
- After enjoying a tasty meal
- While lounging on a comfortable spot like your bed
- When being petted, especially in spots they enjoy
Communication with Humans and Other Cats
Cats also use purring as a form of communication. For example, a mother cat purrs to comfort her kittens, signalling safety and reassurance. In a household with multiple cats, a purring cat may be signalling other cats that they are not a threat, which helps maintain harmony.
Examples:
- A mother cat purring while nursing her kittens
- Two adult cats purring to show they’re in a relaxed, non-aggressive state
Mechanism of Self-Soothing
Interestingly, cats will also purr when they’re in pain or feeling anxious. In these cases, purring serves as a self-soothing mechanism. It helps calm their nerves and reduce their stress levels, much like humans might comfort themselves during difficult situations.
Examples:
- A cat purring when feeling unwell or injured
- Purring after a stressful event, such as a trip to the vet
Healing and Therapeutic Effects
There’s also an intriguing scientific aspect to cat purring. Research has shown that the frequency of a cat’s purr (between 25-150 Hertz) has therapeutic properties. This frequency has been linked to healing benefits, such as promoting bone growth and reducing pain and inflammation. In other words, cats may not just purr for relaxation—they may be helping to heal their own bodies as well.
Examples:
- Cats purring while healing from an injury
- Purring that encourages tissue regeneration
2. The Frequency of Purring
Understanding the Frequency Range
Cat purring typically occurs within a frequency range of 25 to 150 Hertz. This is significant because frequencies in this range have been shown to promote bone growth and tissue healing in humans and animals alike.
The reason why purring has this healing effect is still not entirely understood, but studies suggest that the vibrations from a cat’s purr help stimulate the production of bone-forming cells, which can aid in the recovery process.
Example:
- Cats who purr frequently after an injury may recover faster due to these healing vibrations.
The Science Behind Therapeutic Vibrations
The purring frequency range not only helps cats recover but has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in humans. The sound of a purring cat can have a calming effect, helping to lower blood pressure and promote feelings of comfort and relaxation in those around them.
Example:
- Petting a cat and hearing their purr can have a calming effect, making cat owners feel more at ease.
3. Purring Versus Other Vocalisations
Different Vocalisations in Cats
While purring is often associated with relaxation, it’s important to recognise that cats have a wide range of vocalisations. Meowing, hissing, growling, and even chirping are all part of a cat’s vocal repertoire, and each sound serves a specific purpose.
- Meowing is generally reserved for communication with humans, often as a request for food, attention, or companionship.
- Hissing is a defensive vocalisation, often signalling fear or aggression.
- Growling can indicate discomfort, irritation, or territorial behaviour.
Purring, on the other hand, is mostly linked to positive emotional states, though it can also occur in times of stress or pain, as mentioned earlier.
Understanding the Context of Purring
Context is key when interpreting your cat’s purring. If a cat purrs while being petted and has a relaxed body, it’s likely a sign of contentment. However, if a cat is purring but their body is tense, or they’re hiding away, it could be a sign of stress or anxiety.
Examples:
- A relaxed, slow purr = Happy, content cat
- A tense purr with dilated pupils = Possible anxiety or discomfort
- Not purring? Read our in-depth article on why doesn’t my cat purr here.
4. Emotional States Indicated by Purring
Signs of Happiness and Relaxation
A relaxed cat purring while sitting on your lap or lying in a sunbeam is a clear sign that they are content. These cats are typically calm and at ease, and their purring serves as a way to bond with you or show affection.
Signs of a content cat:
- Soft, steady purring
- Relaxed body posture
- Tail still or gently swaying
Signs of Discomfort or Anxiety
Not all purring is a sign of happiness. If your cat purrs while exhibiting other signs of stress – such as hiding, dilated pupils, or being unusually aggressive – it could be a sign that they’re feeling anxious, unwell, or in pain.
Signs of an anxious or distressed cat:
- Purring but also hiding or showing defensive body language
- Purring accompanied by a flicking tail or flattened ears
- Changes in eating or grooming habits
Seeking Attention or Companionship
Cats also use purring to solicit attention from their owners. This is often referred to as “solicitation purring.” If your cat purrs while rubbing against your legs, it’s likely trying to engage with you and ask for affection, food, or play.
Examples:
- A cat purring while following you around, especially near food or their favourite resting place
- Purring while seeking your attention for petting or playtime
5. Comparing Purring to Other Feline Behaviours
Purring in Domestic Cats Versus Big Cats
Not all cats purr or purr in the same way. While domestic cats are known for their purring, larger felines like lions and tigers generally don’t. However, smaller big cats like cheetahs and bobcats do purr. This highlights the diverse evolutionary paths of different species of felines.
- Domestic cats and smaller big cats like cheetahs produce a purring sound through similar mechanisms, though the reasons behind the sound may vary.
Similarities with Other Feline Species
Purring serves as a social signal that helps foster relationships between cats, whether domestic or wild. In wild cats, it’s used less frequently but still has the same underlying purpose – communication and reassurance. The evolution of purring has likely helped domestic cats build strong bonds with their human companions.
6. The Human-Cat Bond
How Purring Affects Human Emotions
The sound of a cat’s purr can be incredibly soothing. Many cat owners report feeling more relaxed and at ease when they hear their cat purring. The sound promotes a sense of comfort and has been shown to reduce stress levels and even lower blood pressure in humans.
Examples:
- Feeling a sense of calm while petting your purring cat
- The act of cuddling with a purring cat helping to alleviate stress after a long day
Enhancing the Relationship Through Understanding Vocalisations
By understanding the meaning behind your cat’s purring, you can respond more appropriately to their needs. If your cat is purring because they want attention, providing affection or playtime can strengthen your bond. Conversely, if they’re purring out of stress or discomfort, creating a quiet, safe space for them to retreat to can help.
7. Monitoring Your Cat’s Health Through Purring
Recognising Changes in Purring Patterns
Cats are creatures of habit, and changes in their purring patterns could signal health problems. If your cat starts purring more often or if the sound changes in pitch or frequency, it could be a sign of stress, pain, or illness.
Examples:
- A sudden increase in purring could signal anxiety or discomfort.
- A noticeable change in purring pitch may indicate issues with their voice box or respiratory system.
When to Be Concerned About Purring Sounds
If your cat’s purring is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or behavioural changes, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian. Persistent or loud purring without other signs of contentment could point to underlying health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Purring
What does it mean when a cat purrs to you?
A cat purring at you is usually a sign of contentment, affection, and trust. It shows that they feel safe and comfortable in your presence
Are cats really happy when they purr?
Not always. While purring can indicate happiness, it can also signal stress, discomfort, or a plea for attention. The context of the purring is important.
Do cats control their purring?
Generally, cats do not control when they purr. It’s an involuntary action, though they may purr more often in certain situations, like when seeking comfort or affection.
What is the science behind cat purring?
The frequency of a cat’s purr has been shown to promote healing, reduce pain, and lower stress. These vibrations help stimulate tissue repair and increase overall health.
Conclusion
Understanding your cat’s purring can provide valuable insights into their emotional and physical state. Whether they’re expressing contentment, seeking attention, or soothing themselves, purring is a versatile behaviour that plays an important role in their well-being and communication with you. By paying attention to the context and frequency of their purring, you can better meet your cat’s needs and deepen your bond. If you notice changes in your cat’s purring patterns, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy.