Why do cats purr?

When we pet them, when they sleep, when their mother breastfeeds them, when they receive food, when they meet other cats or when they clean themselves... why do cats purr? If you have ever asked yourself this question, you should know that purring is usually an expression of comfort for cats, but it can also represent fear, stress, hunger or pain.

The purring of cats (which reaches an average frequency of 27 hertz) is considered a defence mechanism and a way to stay calm in stressful situations. For example, while the vet examines a cat, it may purr; on this occasion, this gesture doesn't symbolise happiness or enjoyment, but an attempt to calm down. Have you ever wondered in what situations cats purr and why? Let's take a look.

Why do kittens purr?

If you are wondering why kittenspurr, you should know that it's purely down to survival instinct. When theyare born, kittens are blind and deaf and need their mother's vibrations tocommunicate with her and reach her body to feed. Cats begin to purr within afew days of birth; this is how primitive this gesture is. Did you know thateven the mother cat purrs during childbirth to relieve her discomfort? 

Why do cats purr and knead?

Purring relaxes them and is good for the cat's health. Among other benefits, it also promotes their relaxation and well-being by releasing serotonin (the happiness hormone), stimulating your muscles and strengthening bone growth.

Unlike other sounds, such as meowing, purring stands out for being produced with the mouth closed. Rather than a form of vocal communication, purring is a muscular contraction of the vocal cords and a consequence of air being inhaled and expelled and hitting the cat's larynx.

It's quite common for a cat to purr along with other gestures such as kneading. But do you know why cats purr and knead? They are two gestures that, together, usually mean happiness and comfort. It's not uncommon to see a cat kneading with its paws while purring.

However, don't worry if you're wondering why your cat doesn't purr anymore. This gesture, like many others, will depend on their character. Like humans, each cat expresses itself in its own way, and purring is just one way, and it's not something that should worry us.

Why does my cat bite me when he purrs?

In addition to the types of purring seen above, there is also the so-called 'demand purr', more similar to a cry, through which the cat wants to let us know that it's hungry. This explains why my cat bites me when he purrs, as he surely wants to get my attention, so in addition to purring, he doesn't hesitate to sink his teeth to alert me of his presence and needs.

In conclusion, a purring cat may not be happy but nervous, stressed or hungry. By observing their behaviour and paying attention to their mood, we will be able to find out what it's really about.