Why do cats purr?

Question

what makes them purr and why do they do it?

Answer 1

To communicate with other cats/humans. They don't necessarily only purr when they're happy; they also sometimes purr when they're frightened or in great pain for instance, possibly to comfort themselves or to be submissive.

Some research has been done suggesting that the natural state for cats is to purr when they're being sociable. An observer saw some wildcats under a tree relaxing and purring. When one of them spotted a rabbit it immediately stopped, causing the other cats to pay attention as to why it stopped.

Answer 2

Hi Sylas...The reason is psychological as well as physiological--the two are not mutually exclusive of one another. Cat's purr whenever they feel content, extremely frightened and some will purr when they are dying as well.

How cats purr:
One study determined that purring involves activation of nerves within the voice box. These nerve signals cause vibration of the vocal cords while the diaphragm serves as a pump, pushing air in and out of the vibrating cords, thus creating a musical hum. Some veterinarians believes that purring is initiated from within the central nervous system and is a voluntary act. In other words, cats purr only when they want to.

The other theory is that the sound comes more from vibrating blood vessels than in the voicebox itself. The larger the vocal chords the softer the purr whereas the smaller the louder.
Source: http://cats.about.com/cs/catmanagement101/a/why_cats_purr.htm


The Scientific Reason WHY cats purr:

Some scientists believe when cats purr the frequency of their purring will help heal damaged bones and body organs as well as help heal humans.

All the cats had purr frequencies between 20 Hz and 200 Hz. With the exception of the cheetah, which had frequencies 2 Hz from the rest, all the species had frequencies, notably 25 Hz, 50 Hz, 100 Hz, 125 Hz, and 150 Hz, that correspond exactly with the best frequencies determined by the most recent research for bone growth, fracture healing, pain relief, relief of breathlessness, and inflammation. All of the cats' purrs, including the cheetah, had frequencies 4 Hz from the entire repertoire of low frequencies known to be therapeutic for all of the ailments.

That fact that the cats in this study produced frequencies that have been proven to improve healing time, strength and mobility could explain the purr's natural selection. After a day or night of hunting, purring could be likened to an internal vibrational therapeutic system, a sort of "kitty massage" that would keep muscles and ligaments in prime condition and less prone to injury. Additionally, the purr could strengthen bone, and prevent osteodiseases. Following injury, the purr vibrations would help heal the wound or bone associated with the injury, reduce swelling, and provide a measure of pain relief during the healing process.
Source: http://www.sciam.com/earth-and-environment/article/id/why-do-cats-purr/topicID/3./catID/3

Answer 3

Cats purr when they are wanting attention; of any kind, from anybody. Cats DO NOT only purr when they are happy. My cat was hit by a car and as I tried to rescue him, he purred until he died in my arms. That's not to say your cats are not happy! They sound content and just want more good stuff. And yes, rubbing on your legs is typical cat behavior. Sounds like you have some happy felines!

Answer 4

cats purr because they are content and happy, their way of talking to you and letting you know they are bonded with you..they have a 'voice box in their throat that meows or purrs....

Answer 5

cats purr to trick people into loving them so they will do favour to their cats. Once cats have got what they want, they will just turn away and walk out like that.

Answer 6

They purr to show they are happy.

Answer 7

they purr to tell other cats that they're with master and to keep them away.

Answer 8

My kitty purrs when you pet it. He really likes it under his chin.

Answer 9

I don't think the answer was really ever figured out. They just do in a relaxed or happy state.

Answer 10

I heard a standup piece by Eddie Izzard (comedian) that was hilarious. Says they're actually drilling, "for gold, for oil, for the sheer love of drilling!" You should hear it - he's funny.