When you hear a cat purr, it might come to your mind that it is as simple as human smiling and dogs wagging their tail but actually it is a bit complicated.

Why Do Cats Purr

Cats not only purr when they are happy but when they are stressed or afraid. In cats purring is not only the method of communication. It is also a defense mechanism and a way to stay calm in a stressful situation. Indeed, the cats may purr while giving birth. So purring is more likely to be a mechanism that helps cats rest and repair.

Purring can also be a sign of self-comforting behavior. It is first expressed when kittens are few days old and gives signals to their mother to feed them. This continues in their adult life too.

How Do Cats Purr

You will find it surprising that there are no special organs in their bodies to enable them to purr. It is just the rapid movement of the muscles of the larynx, combined with the movement of diaphragm. The muscles move about 20 to 30 times per second.

The Combination Of Purr And Meow

There is a special type of purr in cats that they use when they want to grab attention and especially when they wanted to be fed.  This kind of purr is known as “solicitation purr” and involves the combination of purr and meow. With time the cat owner also starts understanding the reason behind their purr.

It is quite strange to know that how the domesticated feline friends have evolved to live with and be nurtured by us.