Why do cat's meow and purr?

Cats are fascinating creatures and their meows and purrs are two of their most distinctive and endearing traits - we certainly get a lot of it at Cat’ll Do Nicely! But why do cats meow and purr, and what do these sounds mean? Let's take a closer look.

Meowing

Cats meow for a variety of reasons, but mainly as a way to communicate with their owners. A cat's meow can convey a range of emotions, including hunger, discomfort, and even boredom. For example, a soft, quiet meow may indicate that a cat is feeling playful or affectionate, while a loud, demanding meow usually means they want something. Additionally, cats may meow to gain attention or to solicit food or affection.

It's important to note that meowing is not a natural form of communication between cats. Rather, cats have developed this behavior as a way to communicate with humans. This is why meowing is often referred to as "solicitation meowing."

Purring

Purring, on the other hand, is a more mysterious behavior. While the exact reason for purring is still not entirely understood, it's believed to serve several purposes.

Firstly, purring is often associated with contentment and relaxation. A cat may purr when they are feeling comfortable and safe, such as when they are being petted or cuddled. Additionally, some experts believe that purring may have a calming effect on cats, helping them to relax and reduce stress.

Purring may also serve as a way for cats to communicate with each other. For example, a mother cat may purr to signal to her kittens that she is nearby and all is well. Purring may also serve as a way for cats to bond with each other and with their owners.

Finally, some experts believe that purring may have therapeutic benefits for cats. The low frequency vibrations generated by a cat's purring may help to heal bones and tissues, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote overall well-being.

In conclusion, cats meow and purr for a variety of reasons, and each sound conveys a different message. Whether it's a soft meow indicating playfulness or a contented purr signaling relaxation, these sounds are an integral part of a cat's communication and help us to better understand and bond with our feline friends.

Previous
Previous

The dangers of antifreeze for cats

Next
Next

Animal Welfare Regulations 2018 and its impact on cat care