Have you ever experienced the joy of petting a cat and feeling her vibrate with contentment? That’s the unmistakable sound of purring, a unique ability that sets cats apart from many other animals. While most people assume that purring indicates happiness, the reality is that cats purr for a variety of reasons. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of cat purrs and explore the many ways they can benefit both cats and humans.
How do cats purr?
One of the most interesting aspects of cat purrs is that scientists still don’t fully understand how cats are able to produce them. While some researchers believe that cats create purring sounds by vibrating their vocal cords, others propose that the sound is generated by the vibration of muscles in the cat’s larynx. In a study titled The Felid Purr: A Biomechanical Healing Mechanism, which was published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America in 2001, Elizabeth von Muggenthaler posited that cats produce the purring sound through the activation of muscles in their larynx, rather than through the vibration of their vocal cords.
When and why do cats purr?
The answer to this question is more complex than one might initially assume. While many people believe that cats purr solely because they’re content and happy, the reality is that cats can purr for a variety of reasons. Cats will often purr when they’re feeling relaxed and content, but they may also purr when they’re anxious, scared or in pain. In fact, some cats may even purr as they’re dying.
They might purr when they’re snuggled up in your lap, or when you’re scratching behind their ears, but cats can purr in response to a range of stimuli, from the sound of a familiar voice to the aroma of a favourite food. They may purr to greet other cats, to signal that they want attention, or to calm themselves when they’re feeling stressed.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of cat purring is the healing powers it possesses. Purring is a unique gift that enables cats to release endorphins, which can:
- Lower their blood pressure
- Boost bone regeneration
- Reduce infections
- Improve circulation
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Even heal ligaments and joints
Humans can also benefit from the therapeutic effects of cat purrs. The frequency of a domestic cat’s purr falls between 25 and 50 vibrations per second, which happens to be the ideal frequency for human muscle healing. Moreover, studies have suggested that owning a cat and being exposed to the sound of their purring can decrease the likelihood of a heart attack by up to 40%.
In fact, some veterinarians use a therapy called ‘purr therapy’, which involves exposing patients to the vibrations of a purring cat, as a form of complementary treatment.
How can you make your cat purr?
Well, the good news is that it’s quite easy. Most cats are happy to purr when they’re feeling relaxed, happy and content, so simply spending time with your cat and giving her plenty of love and attention is often enough to get her purring. It may be more challenging to get some cats to purr than others, but you can try things like petting her, playing with her, giving her a favourite treat or catnip, or even just talking to her in a soothing voice. She may respond to stroking her face or back or scratching her tummy if she allows it.
Of course, it’s also important to remember that not all cats are the same. While most cats are happy to purr when they’re feeling relaxed and content, some cats might not purr very often or at all. If you have a cat who doesn’t purr, don’t worry. Every cat is unique, and there’s no right or wrong way for a cat to express herself.
Healing and happy vibrations
Cat purrs are fascinating and complex. Despite the mystery surrounding cat purrs, one thing is sure: the sound of a purring cat is one of the most comforting sounds in the world. So, next time you’re snuggled up with your furry friend, take a moment to appreciate the soothing sound of her purr.
