Cat’s purring is one of the most comforting behaviors. When you are back home tired or settling in the night, it’s nice to see your pet friend purring at you. However, it leaves a void, especially if he has been around for a long time, and suddenly, he stops purring. As an owner, it is your duty to understand its behavior as he might trying to communicate something to you. Not only does it benefit the pets, but to the owners as well.
Many studies prove that a cat’s purring lower blood pressure. There are also other numerous benefits like strengthening of bones, reducing the cardio problems, etc. Therefore, when cats do not purr, automatically as an owner, you may feel strange. Many people assume that their cats are either unhealthy or unhappy. But to help you out with these strange questions, here are some facts about the felines purring.
Studies on Cat Purring
Even though scientists are still trying their best to find on cat’s vocalization, there is no evidence on why they make a specific sound. The sounds are calming and therapeutic, but it’s not sure whether they are purring on purpose or naturally. For what the records have been saying is that the purring is connected to the vibration in vocal cords. It occurs as the cord comes in contact with the windpipe while inhaling or exhaling.
Depending on the intensity, the pitch of purring may differ. Mostly when there is a change in the cat’s respiratory system when breathing in and out, everything may seem different. But this may vary from cat to cat because some cats may have a different method of communicating to humans. They have different body language or facial expressions. Also, there are cases where the owners don’t realize that the cat is purring, as it may be very soft and gentle.
In rare cases, the cats may want to purr, but they may have some deficit in a vocal cord or the respiratory system. Hence, they may not purr efficiently.
Understand why cats purr
Many experts across the world say that purring is a method of kittens communicating with their mother. That is the origin, and it continues as they find the same comfort and warmth with the owners. When the cats are born, they don’t possess strong vision, and almost, they are deaf. Hence using the purring vibration, they try to talk to their mother and get guidance for various reasons. Primarily, they want to be fed and suckle.
As they grow up, the toddlers and adult cats use the purring function for seeking attention, talking to the fellow cats, and expressing their happiness. When they aggressively purr, it means that they are stressed or hurt or angry.
If you doubt about your cat’s purring or when it is suddenly stopped, for your peace of mind, take them to the vet. Especially when you see some other signs like the loss in their appetite or too lazy, then it needs to be addressed immediately.
Some cats don’t purr
What you need to understand is that some cats naturally don’t purr. Because every cat has a unique personality, and maybe purring is not in your cat’s list. It also depends on how they are brought up or from the background they come from. Cats choose their body language. So, when you have adopted cats, they might be trained by their mother cats to purr. Also, they are not used to purring; instead, they use facial expressions.
It is common with the homeless cats. They tend to purr less because it is soft and subtle. Every day, they are used to deal with a lot of predators and prey. Hence, these cats possess some powerful violating sounds or body language.
The following table may help you predict your cat’s behavior based on another vocalization type other than purring.
Cats’ vocalization types
What do they mean?
|Meow||Common among all the cats|
Classic sound, gentle, and sometimes continuous
Greeting and common communication
|Chirping||Communicating to fellow pets|
Hints about predators
Curious or Important
|Howling||Loud and drawn outcalls|
Distress about new people or fellow pets
|Growling||Fear or Anger|
High-pitched and continuous
Take Defensive position
|Screaming||Common during the breeding period|
Especially unsprayed cats
Is your cat unhappy?
Many pet owners complain that their cats don’t purr because they seem unhappy. It’s just a myth. They are not purring because they don’t want to. On some level, it may be true that cats don’t purr while they are stressed or having anxiety. But this does not mean necessarily that all cats stop purring when they are scared.
During this anxiety in cats, you can provide them with Cat comfort zone diffusers. It is a calming formula that helps them to ease their mind after a few minutes. It may be one of the best ways to find if they are moody. Before you go give this to your pet, do consult with the vet.
However, if at all, your cats stopped purring along with the limping, diarrhea, or vomiting, then that’s when you may have to worry. They need to be treated or should be supported by vets. Otherwise, they are going to be okay.
Should you encourage the cat to purr?
Many animal researchers say that there is nothing cognitive or coax about the un-purring cats. It’s intuitive and normal, especially when it comes to this type of vocalization. Even though if you feel that they are capable of purring, as you hear them at an extremely low tone, then maybe, you can encourage them. Here are some of the common ways to promote purring in cats:
- You make similar purring noises behind their ears, chin, or back.
- Talk or sing lullaby seeing your cats. Don’t stare directly in their eyes as it may cause aggression in them.
- Try to make your cat trust you and feel comfortable by allowing him to lie near you. You can also take your cat for a walk or play with him daily.
- Cat love kneading surface. Offer them one by purchasing the Best Friend’s kneading cozy cuddler. It offers them a breathable warmth that creates a sense of security for better sleep and reduces their stress and anxiety. Eventually, they will purr very softly.
Whether your cats purr or not, it does not matter. It is vital they feel comfortable and relaxed. You can encourage them to purr by giving a love tap on their back and try to communicate with them. We are sure one day or the other, at least for your sake, they are going to purr at you.