Purring is the most common sound a cat makes, yet we know the least about it compared to their other noises. A cat’s purr is usually associated with happiness, but there are a variety of other reasons why your cat may be purring! Let’s take a look at what your cat’s purr may mean!
They Are Simply Happy
If your cat looks relaxed and is purring, then it is safe to assume they are happy! So, if your cat comes up and rubs up against you while purring, just know that they are saying they love you!
They Are Hungry or Want Something
When cats are hungry, sometimes they purr. British researchers studied the sounds that cats make when they’re hungry and when they are not. The sounds of the purrs are not the same! The “hungry” purr combines a normal purr with an unpleasant cry or mew. This purr is much more recognizable than an ordinary one, making it more likely that we recognize they are hungry or want something! If your cat keeps you up at night with this type of purring and meowing, try using Pet Notify’s Pet Tasks to keep a consistent feeding schedule or daily play routine!
For Relief and Healing
Many cats purr when they get hurt or are in pain. Purring can be a way for a cat to soothe itself, just like how a baby sucks its thumb to feel better. Some research has also suggested that purring can help cats heal faster! The low frequency of purrs leads to a series of vibrations within their body that can lessen pain and swelling, ease breathing, heal bones and wounds, and build muscle and repair tendons. This may explain why cats are able to survive high falls and tend to have fewer complications post-surgery compared to dogs.
To Build a Kitten-Mother Connection
The first purr from a kitten comes when they are only a couple of days old. It is a way of letting their mothers know that they are okay or where they are. Mother cats also use the soothing sound as a lullaby for their kittens, helping to form a strong bond between the two.
Now that you better understand your cat’s purr, continue to give them a voice with Pet Notify! Between the Intellitag and in-app tools like Alarms and Tasks, Pet Notify gives your pet a voice by ensuring that they are always cared for, whether by you or by others when you are unable to be there. Sign up for a Pet Notify plan now to give your pet a voice!
Aaron Fong
