The cat’s purr is a unique sound not only because it is limited to felines but also because it is a means of communication that is not truly a vocalization. Cats can purr when they are happy and also when they are injured, frightened, giving birth or even near death. Even cats being held for veterinary procedures such as x-rays or blood samples have been known to purr frequently. Sometimes the purr can be a sign of submission, indicating cooperation and avoidance of conflict with “a larger more powerful cat,” for example, the vet, the groomer, etc).
Purring is caused by vibrations in the throat and has been observed in the behavior of wild cats, such as the cheetah, the puma and the smaller ocelot and serval. Big wild cats, such as lions and tigers, cannot purr because their throats are equipped for roaring. Therefore, it would seem that a cat could either purr or roar, but not both. (Don’t tell the MGM lion!)
One can only speculate as to what function a purring state serves, as the animal utilizes so much energy in order to achieve it. Purring is a primeval force that has been passed down through many generations of cats, like some ancient, magical ritual. Some researchers believe that purring has to be deeply rooted in the animal’s evolutionary sense of survival, and that this is supported by the fact that cats purr when injured. Perhaps it serves a healing purpose? It may also be connected to pain relief. Most agree that the purr cannot be solely a means of communication as cats purr when in the company of no one except their own feline selves.
Do you have a cat that purrs a great deal and/or in odd circumstances? Please share.