Why Do Cats Purr?

One important thing we do know about purring, however, is that it can be a highly beneficial act for the cat itself. Purring is thought to be very soothing and de-stressing for cats (and conveniently is the same for us feeble humans). This explains why cats purr when they are unhappy or nervous: It's a mechanism to help calm themselves and retain their cat-like composure. Purring also has numerous physical benefits, including tissue-regeneration. That's right: Purring can actually help a cat heal.



The low frequency of a purr (about 26 Hertz on average for a domestic cat) has the same muscular and bone-strengthening benefits as high-impact exercise on humans. That probably explains why they can jump from the highest bookshelf in your living room and not feel a thing.

Purring also has the benefit of releasing endorphins, a chemical that helps in pain management and overall happiness. Many cats will purr when pregnant in order to ease the aches. When the kittens are born, the purring continues as a necessary form of communication. As cats are born blind, a mother's purr is necessary in order for the newborns to find and communicate with her. Newborn kittens pick up on the technique when they are just a few days old.

Of course, the most important thing in decoding any purr is context. As it is a form of communication, it is up to us cat-lovers to discern exactly what our feline friends are trying to say. Whether they are hungry, scared, or just happy to see us — there are usually clues to indicate, and it's our job to be attuned to those clues (in order to best serve our kitten overlords, of course).