Why kitties purr

The purr has developed as a low-energy way to keep bones and tissues in good condition while they rest. And the purr may not just be of benefit to the cats themselves.

Petting a cat has long been seen as a form of stress relief — cat ownership could cut the risk of stroke or heart disease by as much one-third. Those same frequencies cats purr at might also be doing good to us as well. It calms us and pleases us, like watching waves against a beach. Haddon agrees.

The purr from a happy cat may also be of benefit to human health Credit: Alamy. Most of us feed the cat before ourselves, which shows how effective their communication is.

With this deeper knowledge, the bond between cat and owner can only grow. If you liked this story, sign up for the weekly bbc. These frequencies may also assist in muscle growth, flexibility, and wound healing. So your cat may be purring to heal herself.

When your cat purrs, the best thing to do is pay attention. Note the context, his body language, the tone of the purr, and what he does in response to your reaction. When he purrs, try different things. If you pet him, does he settle down and go to sleep? If so, he wanted you to pet him. Does he move away from you? If so, he may need food or want to play. Getting to know your cat by watching and listening to his signals helps you bond with each other and deepens your kitty love.

Understanding Their Love Language. Why Do Cats Purr? Pin FB More. All rights reserved. Is your cat pestering you around dinnertime, purring insistently? It may be hungry. Cats seem to purr with greater urgency when hungry. Is he purring at you through YouTube? Maybe he's encouraging you to finish the story you're writing. This was my soundtrack for writing this piece. You are welcome. Danielle Venton is a science writer who fosters a special love for bugs, plants, mountains, books and gorgeous space photos.

Contributor Twitter. Topics Biology cats. For instance, if you pick your cat up, they will either purr because they like it, or because they are nervous. Purring also helps a kitten and mother bond, and mother cats use purring as a lullaby.

Relief - Many cats purr when hurt or in pain. Purring is a way for a cat to soothe itself, just like a human child will suck their thumb to feel better.