Why does my cat purr? That vibrational, humming sound that your cat emits while they are lying next to you on your lap on or on your bed (cats will lie wherever they please), can be such a relaxing and soothing sound. We expect to hear our feline’s purring at during casual encounter and when we don’t it can be a bit puzzling and unsettling, making us wondering if our feline is ill or just in a temperamental mood. The following are some reasons as to why your cat purrs.

Cats purr when they are in a stressful situation and want to comfort themselves so that they won’t become more frightened than they already are. It’s a way of calming themselves so that they can be aware of their surroundings and take action if anything negative arises.

Felines purr when they are happy and content. Ever notice your cat purring while they are weaving in between your legs while you are sitting down or while you’re a petting them? That’s a signal that they are relaxed and appreciate being in your company. A relaxed cat can fall into a light sleep and purr for a couple of hours. Until they hit a deep sleep, the purring will cease.

A cat’s purr can also be good for your health. Studies show that cats can purr at a frequency of 25 to 100H. This is the same frequency that aids in the healing of bones and relief of muscle pain in humans. When a person hears this low frequency of sound it’s soothing and relaxing to them, hence they can heal faster and experience lesser amounts of muscle tension.

Studies also show that cats unlike other animals purr when they are recovering from an illness or injury. When a cat purrs, they are releasing endorphins into their system which helps in easing pain. Meanwhile, they are still recovering but have the added advantage of not feeling as stressed from pain and anxiety.

Felines have learned purring at birth. When a mother cat gives birth, she purrs as she’s delivering her newborns. Newborn kittens cannot see or hear when they are born but can feel their mother’s vibrational purrs, signifying that Mom is close by. This guides them to stay close to their mother and to purr back as a form of communication. As kittens nurse they purr, which tells Mom that they are safe and secure and of course Mom cat purrs back in recognition.