Why did the cat stop purring?

Physiology of purring

First, let's figure out how and why cats make such sounds, which we call purring. Experts say that this is determined by a number of features, because only representatives of this family have this property .

1 version . Impulses from the brain transmit signals to the vocal cords, which cause their vibrational contractions. For us it is heard that the pet is purring. If the cat opens its mouth at this time, it will produce a normal “meow.”

Version 2 . Air flow movement. Scientists say that the ability of cats to purr as they inhale and exit is the result of the circulation of air entering the lungs.

Version 3 . A slightly implausible assumption, but it also has a place - cats can force the blood flow to circulate through large vessels so that a special vibration occurs in the skull. It is she who gives that sound.

What does purring mean?

An interesting fact is that the vibrating sound made by cats is the result of several factors.:

manifestation of emotions. The kittens signal to the cat that everything is fine. Then the adult purrs and thereby tries to tell the owner about it,
an expression of pleasure. This is a kind of sign of gratitude for delicious food, comfort and affection. In general, being in a good mood can be a reason to purr under your breath,
calmness. This is a way to calm down after suffering stress, especially when stroked by the owner. After all, the kitten purrs when sucking its mother’s milk and this is a natural process. Therefore, an already adult cat calms down from the sound of its purring. Sometimes in this way he prepares himself for sleep. Then there is no loud purring, rather it will be quiet,
a sign of threat or a mood to hunt. Purring can not only be kind and affectionate, it can sound quite aggressive. This is how the cat makes it clear that this is his territory. The hunter guarding the birds purrs loudly, tuning in to the hunting process.

If a cat never purrs, it may be due to his personality. Some individuals, like people, simply do not like to show emotions.

The cat doesn't purr

The absence of such sounds from a cat may not only be the result of heredity. Often it occurs due to character traits or a manifestation of resentment towards the owner. Perhaps this is a consequence of distrust of a person, a feeling of discomfort, a feeling that he has become superfluous in the family.

Often a cat does not purr and begins to behave this way after the arrival of a small child in the family. To attract attention to herself, she begins to do dirty tricks, which she has not done before. But the owners' reaction to this may be negative. Try to understand the reason for this behavior and show your pet patience and affection. Then the situation may change and you will again hear him purring gratefully.

Causes of purring

To date, scientists have not been able to find out exactly why some cats purr and others do not. So, for example, some owners may not hear their pet purring at all until the cat finds itself in a certain environment or its owner changes. Most often, cats purr when they are happy and feel completely safe. There are very rare cases when an animal's purring is associated with food intake; most likely, this happens when the cat likes the food so much that it begins to purr from satiety and pleasure.

According to some researchers, purring can have several types. The range of sounds can range from 50 – 150 Hertz . So, a cat may begin to purr, letting its owner know that it wants him to feed it, pay attention to it, or caress it. In such cases, the purring is not loud, but quiet and reaches only 70 Hertz. Cats purr loudly when they show their owner how happy or grateful they are to him. This sound can often be heard if you give a cat a tasty morsel from the table or gently stroke it.

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How do cats purr?

Who would have thought that such a seemingly trivial question could plunge “great minds” into complete stupor. Until recently, scientists were simply unlucky: they were unable to unravel the mystery of how and why pets make sounds.

Hypotheses

Some suggested that the whole issue was in the vibration of the diaphragm or trachea, other pundits generally blamed the cat's belly for everything. But the whole point is that it was not possible to solve the puzzle due to the examination of immobilized animals that did not make a single sound.

Proven version

The modern theory is completely different from all previous guesses. A certain part of the brain is responsible for rumbling in cats, which sends impulses directly to the vocal cords.

They begin to vibrate, which is reflected on the hyoid bones, then the vibration spreads throughout the body and, as a result, you and I can hear a wonderful “melody”.

At what frequency do cats purr?

Using special equipment, researchers determined the range of sounds produced by animals from 25 to 150 Hz. Thanks to this frequency, cats are able to heal their wounds and calm the nervous system.

Their baritone practically does not change, except that at certain moments the cats purr more intensely, and sometimes less so.

Do big cats purr?

Scientists have found that not only seals, but also some other whiskered representatives of wildlife can make purring sounds. These are lynxes, cheetahs, servals, jaguars and other cats, but, unfortunately, not all. This is especially true for large representatives of the family.

Why can't big cats purr? It's all about their physiology, because in small wild and domestic cats the hyoid bone is thin and can bend and vibrate. But their larger cousins, such as lions, have rough, thick bones and are covered with cartilage.

However, despite the fact that lions do not purr, this structure allows them to roar loudly, which is unusual for small cats or lynxes.

Why do cats purr?

Many scientists are trying to find the answer to this question. As a result of the research, it was possible to establish that a cat produces characteristic rumbling sounds from the muscles of the larynx. When they compress the glottis, the air begins to vibrate as you inhale and exhale.

Cats expand their laryngeal muscles (so that they narrow the gap) not only when they are petted. They purr even without human presence. Many people do this by licking each other.

Some cats purr, begging their owner for food or hinting to him that there is no water in the bowl. Some individuals purr and say that they do not like the change of decor in the room or the appearance of unpleasant odors (for example, the hostess’s new perfume). Scientists were able to find out that animals make rumbling sounds when they are severely frightened or in pain.

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The vibration frequency ranges from 20 to 150 Hz. These figures give us the right to assume that purring is not only a way of communication, but also a kind of physical therapy. Cats calm and heal themselves in this way. The fact is that rumbling at a frequency of 25 to 50 Hz promotes bone growth, and 100 Hz promotes healing and restoration of soft tissues. It is noteworthy that in physical therapy procedures performed on humans, frequencies from 25 to 100 Hz are used.

Why do they do this?

It is impossible to answer this question with complete accuracy and confidence. Cats purr for various reasons, most of which, unfortunately, are unknown to us.

Here are the most plausible ones:

In this way, animals express their feelings and emotions. For example, kittens purr when they communicate with their mother, thereby indicating that everything is fine with them.
Cats purr to heal their wounds or to calm down. In some cases, they can set themselves up for a restful sleep.
The pet is in a state of complete calm.
The cat thanks you for a treat or good attitude. For example, having received delicious food, he wants to thank you, so he makes a pleasant and soothing sound.
The cat begs for a treat or attention to its person.

As you can see, there are a large number of reasons, but they all have one thing in common - love for the owner. This is not just a mechanical lifeless vibration, but a sign of complete trust and affection. Thus, they seem to “mark territory” by talking about their presence here and now.

Why do some cats not purr at all?

. even if you stroke them, and they feel good

By the way, I also didn’t notice a cat purring. I think they’re just happy with everything and they, like people, don’t like to show their emotions in front of everyone. So either we somehow influenced them, or they influenced us.

Purring and tormenting are not the same thing. All domestic cats purr. Only when a kitten is born does it communicate with its mother by purring. While it is small, we can hardly hear it. And the purring of an adult cat is perceptible to our ears. A cat purrs when she feels good, when she sits on her lap or next to her owner. But if a cat, for example, has a heart condition, then it also meows. But domestic cats do not always meow. They communicate with each other mainly through gestures, glances and smells. They meow rather for us. But there are breeds of cats that meow very rarely, for example, Kuril Bobtails. Cats purr more often. My cat starts purring almost every time she sees me. And the cat purrs when I stroke him or when he treats me. When a cat purrs, it makes rhythmic vibrations in the larynx. Cats can meow and purr at the same time; however, this is typical only for talkative individuals. And cats are talkative with their owner only if they trust and are attached to him. If your cat does not purr, try to establish contact with her. Approach, talking affectionately, offer a treat, pat him on the head, sit him on your lap. You can talk as if you were talking to a small child, calmly and affectionately.

By the way, I also didn’t notice a cat purring. I think they’re just happy with everything and they, like people, don’t like to show their emotions in front of everyone. So either we somehow influenced them, or they influenced us.

What to do if your cat suddenly stops purring?

There are times when an animal suddenly stops making purring sounds for an indefinite period of time. There are many reasons for this behavior, and not in all cases it is an illness or mental disorder.

Sometimes a cat just shows its character, believe me, this happens. Or it could be a manifestation of resentment (do not forget that some pets can be very vulnerable and touchy). If you have caused an offense undeservedly, you should try to “apologize” to the cat: pick it up, stroke it, treat it with your favorite treat.

However, there are also moments that should alert you. When unwell, an animal also very often stops purring: it completely loses the desire and ability to make sounds.

In such cases, it is important to take a closer look at the cat: if he is apathetic, does not play, eats poorly and has become lethargic, be sure to seek help from a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Why do cats purr when petted?

A person's hand is essentially an irritating external factor for a cat, to which it can react in different ways. For example, if you stroke a cat against the grain or stroke a cat when it is angry, the animal will usually wag its tail in displeasure, and sometimes may even bite. If you gently stroke a cat at rest, it will begin to purr with pleasure. When the owner gently runs his hand over the cat's fur, the pet feels that he is loved and begins to purr gently, thus demonstrating that he loves and trusts his owner.

In the course of research, it was found that there is no special organ in cats that would be responsible for their purring. Sound is produced in the hyoid bones, which are located between the base of the tongue and the base of the skull. When certain electrical impulses begin to arise in a cat's head, they travel to the muscles located near the vocal cords, which contract and begin to vibrate and cats make purring sounds. The vibration travels throughout the body, so when a cat purrs, it is impossible to listen to how the heart and lungs are working. The most interesting thing is that as soon as the owner turns on the water in the tap, the cats, being distracted, as a rule, immediately stop purring.

31 Jul 2021 veterinar77 152
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Interesting facts about cat purring

There are many interesting facts on this topic that few people know:

There are situations in history when a pet could imitate simple monosyllabic sentences while purring. Of course, this is simple, but this fact is still quite unusual and interesting.
Cats “talk” only when completely alone or in the presence of a person. If two animals are in the same room, they do not need this type of communication.
Purring can be beneficial not only for the cat, but also for the owner. The sounds and vibrations of cats when you pet them have a beneficial effect on the human body: headaches, fatigue, apathy go away, even blood pressure can stabilize in some cases.
When an animal purrs, the veterinarian cannot listen to the heartbeat; it simply cannot be heard. Therefore, doctors wait until the cat calms down or turn on the water to distract him.

It doesn’t matter how loudly or how long the pet “talks”, what matters is that it does it. After all, in this way a cat shows you its love, appreciation and trust. The animal thanks you for feeding, treating and caring for it in general.

Don't drive away the purring cat! Enjoy his “symphony”, relax your nervous system, become calmer, healthier and happier with him!

How purring occurs

The sound originates between the base of the skull and the base of the tongue. In the cat's brain, impulses arise that provoke contraction of the muscles near the vocal cords. The bones under the tongue create a vibration that spreads throughout the animal's body.

Their ability to purr depends on the structure of the hyoid bone of baleen animals. Domestic cats have a triangular-shaped bone, thanks to which they are able to purr continuously both when exhaling and inhaling. Large felines have a rectangular bone under the tongue. This allows them to make roaring sounds to intimidate and scare away enemies, but they can only rumble when exhaling.

Video with a visual demonstration of the anatomical causes of purring:

Many other animals make sounds similar to purring, such as guinea pigs, rabbits, raccoons and hyenas. But this cannot be called purring to the fullest extent. Only cats can truly do this.

Reference! While purring, it is impossible to listen to the animal's heart and lungs.

Why doesn't the cat purr?

Cats purr because of the “shaking” hyoid bones, which begin to vibrate under the influence of the vibrating vocal cords.

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Kitties purr very loudly with pleasure, sometimes silently, as if “on vibration.”

This occurs due to the release of “happiness” hormones - the well-known endorphins. Under their influence, the entire purring mechanism is activated.

The first attempts to “vibrate” are observed in kittens the next day after birth. These little ones don’t yet know how to make any sounds other than squeaks, and they haven’t learned to meow. The purring of a mother cat has a beneficial effect on her kittens: hearing her “song”, they understand that everything is fine and there is no reason to worry. A kitten's purr indicates health and energy.

Also, purring in cats means sympathy. This is how they communicate with each other, as if they are saying that they feel good and comfortable in each other’s company.

Wounded and sick cats also purr. This is where nerve impulses are sent back to the brain, causing the production of endorphins - these hormones are a natural analgesic and reduce pain.

There is also an opinion that purring replaces physical activity for cats. Our mustachioed pets sleep almost 24 hours a day, the animal does not run or jump, and the muscles weaken, even to the point of atrophy. However, the rumbling due to the constant vibration of the muscles keeps it in good shape.

Also, purring in cats means sympathy. This is how they communicate with each other, as if they are saying that they feel good and comfortable in each other’s company.

Why does a cat purr?

The reasons for rumbling in cats can be very different. Let's look at the most likely and common of them.

Pleasure and tranquility - the cat is calm, relaxed, full and satisfied, nothing bothers him.

Communication between mother and kittens - newborn kittens are blind and do not yet know how to communicate by meowing. By purring, the mother lets the babies know that they are safe, and the children show her that they feel good.

The pet wants to show love and devotion - for the cat this is a gesture of trust, it establishes a kind of connection with a loved one. And after a pleasant game or a delicious meal, he can show gratitude in this way.

He wants to get something - it could be some kind of treat, a favorite toy, or just affection and attention.

Preparing for sleep - while purring, cats calm down and relax, sleep will be stronger and sweeter.

Pain relief – cats may purr if they are injured or sick. A signal is sent to the brain centers of the brain and pain is reduced due to the release of endorphins.

Presence of disease - purring too often and for a long time may indicate the presence of diseases in the pet. For example, this is one of the symptoms of feline infectious peritonitis.

Communication with other animals – some cats purr and show interest and friendliness towards other animals. Males may purr around other, older or weaker cats. This is how they show that they will not attack.

Anxiety and fear - the animal may be worried about an important event or something is bothering it, for example, the appearance of a stranger in the house.

Reference! Some cats purr during labor to calm themselves down and relieve pain.

Why do cats purr?

Cat music as a symbol of peace, tranquility and prosperity

We are used to the cat thanking us for our care with its purring. But is this always an expression of only positive emotions? When gently stroking a soft, affectionate lump, or when washing itself after a delicious dinner, purring means a lot of pleasant sensations that the cat shares with us. But it happens that cats purr when they are in pain, unwell, excited or restless. For example, during childbirth, during illness, which can mislead the owner about the true well-being of the pet.

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Taking care of her kittens, the cat gently nurtures them with her soft purring. This is especially pronounced when feeding kittens with milk, when the mother cat purrs loudly, and the babies quietly “rattle” in response.

How does this affectionate animal make sounds so pleasant to the human ear? There are several opinions on this question. Perhaps the rumbling is produced by vibration of the vocal cords. When a cat inhales air, the diaphragm tenses, the vocal cords close, then separate. This releases air, creating a characteristic sound.

Not everyone in the cat family can purr. The following groups of cats are distinguished: growling and purring. The first group includes cats that have a very mobile larynx (since the hyoid bone of such animals is cartilage) and therefore can only growl. These include large species such as lion and tiger.

Puma, ocelot, serval, cheetah, lynx, jaguar and, of course, domestic cats really purr. This is a kind of medicine that has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, bringing calm and relaxation. This sound helps small restless children fall asleep and helps lower blood pressure.

Listen carefully and you will soon realize that rumbling is not one sound, but a combination of several sounds varying in frequency and intensity. By making these subtle changes, a cat is able to express a wide range of feelings. Rough rumbling: the “rougher” the rumbling, the more distinct the Sounds become in each beat, which means that the Cat’s pleasure has reached its maximum value. In animal language this means: “I love you, I love you, please do what you did before. » Soft purring: When a cat becomes bored or begins to doze off, the purring softens and becomes more difficult to discern. Thus, the cat tells you that everything was great, but now enough is enough, it’s time to stop. Something like this: “That was great, exactly what I needed.”

Reasons for purring Pets purr while eating, communicating with the owner and other cats. This is a traditional sign of pleasure.

Kittens first purr when they are just a few days old, signaling their presence to their mother and encouraging her to feed them. When the kittens find the nipple, they begin to trample and “knead” the mother’s mammary glands with their paws to stimulate the flow of milk. They also purr while doing this. This behavior often carries over into adulthood.

How does this affectionate animal make sounds so pleasant to the human ear? There are several opinions on this question. Perhaps the rumbling is produced by vibration of the vocal cords. When a cat inhales air, the diaphragm tenses, the vocal cords close, then separate. This releases air, creating a characteristic sound.

Cat massage

There are many guesses why the pet purrs and tramples its owner with its paws. Here are some of them:

Memories of childhood, or “milk step” - kittens knead their mother with their paws while feeding to quickly obtain milk. This brings them pleasure and is associated in adults with a feeling of comfort, satiety and security.

Prepares a comfortable place to sleep - tramples the surface on which you are going to sleep for the greatest comfort. The owner's knees may well be suitable for this purpose.

Gratitude - in this way one can say “thank you” for delicious food, warm shelter, tenderness and affection.

Therapeutic massage is a common theory that this is how a cat treats its owner from ailments.

Stress relief – by purring and moving their paws, cats lift their spirits, relax and calm down.

Unfulfilled sexual instinct - one theory says that if an animal does not have a mate, it may show unambiguous interest.

Marks its property - cats have glands on their paw pads that secrete a secretion. This is one of the ways to convey to other animals that a person belongs to him.

Showing trust and love - the pet shows its owner its location, favor, openness and trust. Emphasizes your closeness with a person.

This massage soothes, relaxes and helps relieve stress. But what if claws are used? You can lightly press the cat towards you so that he lies down and stops trampling. You should not scold or drive out an animal if its trust and peace of mind are valuable. It’s better to just put a blanket or pillow on your knees in advance.

Reference! A cat will reflexively retract its claws if you stroke the top of its paws.

The most purring breeds

There is no exact data on which cats purr louder and more often than others. It depends on the character and individual characteristics of the four-legged animal. But, since purring is one of the means of communication for cats, it can be assumed that sociable cats purr more often. The most affectionate cat breeds:

Whether a cat will purr and caress depends not so much on the breed, but on the attitude of the owner. A kind and affectionate pet will grow up in a loving, caring family.

Reference! The British cat Merlin entered the Guinness Book of Records for the loudest purr at 67.8 dB.

Cats purr in different sounds, depending on the reasons. If you listen to your pet, you can learn to understand him much better. This will not only make the cat happier, but also strengthen the bond between the animal and its owner.