Cats have many adorable habits and mannerisms, but the purr may very well be the cutest. It’s impossible not to be charmed by the fact that our feline friends literally vibrate with happiness! In this article from Armitage Animal Clinic, your local Newmarket, ON discusses kitty purrs.
Why Cats Purr
As anyone who has ever interacted with a cat can tell you, kitties usually purr when they’re content. Fluffy often starts her motor when she is curled up in her favorite human’s lap, or when someone is holding or petting her. Our feline pals also purr when they find a comfy napping spot, or even as they’re eating.
The History Of The Purr
Have you ever wondered just why cats decided to rumble, instead of just vocalize? The purr may have evolved as a way for kittens to communicate with their mamas while nursing. Fluffy can’t talk with her mouth full, but she can vibrate to let Mom know everything’s ok! This may also be why our furry friends often purr when they feel happy and secure: it reminds them of their kittenhoods.
Healing Purr
Cats don’t only purr when they’re comfy and content. They also sometimes purr when they are sick or scared. There are a few potential reasons for this. First and foremost, the purr is very soothing. (This is one reason our feline buddies make such great sleep aids.) It could be the kitty equivalent of a nervous hum. It’s also worth noting that Fluffy’s engine runs at frequencies between 25 and 140 Hertz. These frequencies have been shown to promote healing and improve bone density. In fact, they’re often used in therapy.
Purrfect Harmony
Kitties aren’t the only animals that purr. Other animals that run their motors include squirrels, hyenas, guinea pigs, raccoons, and hyenas, to name just a few. Most of Fluffy’s larger cousins, including the cheetah, also purr. However, most of the really big cats, like lions, tigers, and leopards, chose to roar instead.
How Cats Purr?
Cats purr by manipulating their vocal cords in a specific way. This more or less pushes them together, instead of moving air past them, the way Fluffy (or you) would vocalize. This also allows our kitties to purr both when inhaling and exhaling.
Contact us here at Armitage Animal Clinic, your local Newmarket, ON vet clinic, anytime! We’re here for you!
