How and Why Does Your Cat Purr?

We’ve often heard that cats purr because they are happy or contented, but that’s not always the case. 

Cats also purr when stressed, like at the veterinarian’s office or when recovering from an illness or injury.

Purring is produced through intermittent signaling of the laryngeal and diaphragmatic muscles and occurs through inhalation and exhalation. Therefore, purring is a low energy mechanism that stimulates muscles and bones without a lot of energy, which helps a cat conserve energy and heal bones and muscles. 

So, when your cat purrs, he/she may be contented, but may also be healing and communicating.

– Kassira McKee

For more information on purring, click here.