Why, And How Do Cats Purr ?
Have you ever wondered what makes a cat purr, or possibly why they purr?
well, no one knows for sure why a domestic cat purrs, but many people interpret the sound as one of contentment. Our understanding of how a domestic cat purrs is becoming more complete; most scientists agree that the larynx (voice box), laryngeal muscles, and a neural oscillator are involved.
Kittens learn how to purr when they are a couple of days old. Veterinarians suggest that this purring tells Mom’ that “I am okay”, and that “I am here.” It also indicates a bonding mechanism between kitten and mother.
As the kitten grows into adulthood, purring continues. Many suggest a cat purrs from contentment and pleasure. However, a cat also purrs when it is injured and in pain. A reputable veterinarian has suggested that the purr, with its low frequency vibrations, is a “natural healing mechanism.”
Purring may be linked to the strengthening and repairing of bones, relief of pain, and wound healing. Purring is a unique vocal feature in the domestic cat. However, other species in the feline family also purr: Bobcat, Cheetah, Eurasian Lynx, Puma, and Wild Cat.
Although some big cats like lions exhibit a purr-like sound, studies show that the Patherinae subfamily: Lion, Leopard, Jaguar, Tiger, Snow Leopard, and Clouded Leopard do not exhibit true purring (Peters, 2002).”
What makes the purr distinctive from other cat vocalizations is that it is produced during the entire respiratory cycle (inhaling and exhaling). Other vocalizations such as the “meow” are limited to the expiration of the breath.
It was once thought that the purr was produced from blood surging through the inferior vena cava, but as research continues it seems that the intrinsic (internal) laryngeal muscles are the likely source for the purring. Moreover, there is an absence of purring in a cat with laryngeal paralysis. The laryngeal muscles are responsible for the opening and closing of the glottis ( the space between the vocal chords), which results in a separation of the vocal chords, and thus the purr sound.
Studies have shown, that the movement of the laryngeal muscles is signaled from a unique “neural oscillator”. So next time you hear this vibration of sound, you will find it quite interesting to distinguish the many different purring sounds that your cat will display, depending on his/her mood and desire.
Why, And How Do Cats Purr ?
This discusses a brief range as to Why and How a cat purrs
Crockpot, 4 months ago
Wow – very interesting!!!!
Thanks for sharing!