Purring is one of the most interesting and unique characteristics our cats do.  But how do they do it?

Technically speaking… A purr is made using the entire respiratory system, meaning they purr while inhaling and exhaling.  Other vocalizations such as the “meow” are limited to exhaling.  The purr is produced by the muscles of the larynx (vocal chords) contracting and producing the purr.  When a cat goes to purr these muscles contract which allows for the opening and closing of the glottis (the space between the vocal chords), which results in the purr sound.  What is even cooler is there is an actual area in the cats brain called the “neural oscillator” which signals these muscles to move and cause the purr.

Another big question is when do cats purr?

  • The most common cause of a purr is a cat’s happiness and contentment.  When someone is petting them or they are laying in their favorite spot and just relaxed.  You can almost see them smiling!
  • There is a noise cats make when they are hungry, it is a combination of a cry and purr.  Most people recognize it as a purr.  If you hear this and your cat is circling the fridge, food dish, or counter… it might be mealtime!
  • Kittens and mothers purr during the first few days of life.  This is a way of communication for both.
  • Cats even purr when they are in pain.  It is their way of trying to comfort themselves.  It also been thought that it helps release natural defenses against pain and inflammation, but this is still not well researched.

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