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Nothing comforts like a cat's purr, especially when you are unwinding for the day or settling in for the night. It’s one of the best things about sharing space with a cat, hearing such a soul-soothing sound.
Not only is purring soothing, but it’s actually believed to lower blood pressure, strengthen bones and reduce the risk of heart attacks. So, when a cat fails to purr, you may be left feeling cheated and wondering whether your cat is unhappy, stressed, or unhealthy.
However, if your cat doesn’t purr it isn’t always a cause for concern. Read on to learn all about cat communication and why your cat may or may not purr.
Cats are known for making that low, rumbling sound we callpurring. We often associate the noise with relaxation and contentment. Author Mark Twain even said, "I simply can't resist a cat, particularly a purring one."
Purring is a unique vocalization. While not all cats are vocal, those that are can communicate in a variety of ways, including meowing, hissing, growling, and of course, purring.
Scientists still don't fully understand how a cat is able to produce this calming, therapeutic sound. It is thought to be connected to the vibration of the vocal cords in conjunction with inhaling and exhaling.
The pitch and intensity may change as the cat breathes in and out. If your cat doesn’t purr, it may just be that he has other ways of communicating, such as using body language or facial expressions, or his purr is too soft to hear, or he simply has a deficit in his vocal cords or respiratory system that prevents him from purring.
Experts surmise that purring is a way for kittens and momma cats to communicate with each other. Since kittens are born both blind and deaf, the vibration of a mother cat’s purr helps guide them to suckle.
When these babies become toddlers and adult cats, purring takes on other functions, such as asking for attention, socializing with other cats, or expressing contentment. Cats also purr, however, when they’re ill, hurt, stressed, or angry.
Some experts believe that cats purr as a way to self-soothe, or to communicate with other cats, while others think that it may be a way for cats to heal themselves, as the vibrations may promote healing and bone density.
If your cat purrs and suddenly stops, you should see a vet, especially if the change is accompanied by lethargy and decreased appetite. Your kitty could have something else going on that needs to be addressed.
While purring is a common cat behavior, not all felines are vocal cats. Some breeds, like the Russian Blue and the American Shorthair, are known for their quiet demeanor and are not as likely to purr as others. And then…
Some cats just don’t purr.
All cats exhibit individual personalities, and purring may just not be a cat’s chosen method of communicating. Instead, your non-purring kitty may use facial expressions or body language to solicit a request for food or affection. It’s also possible you’re unable to detect the purring because it’s so soft and subtle.
If your cat doesn’t purr, fret not. A non-purring cat that has no other adverse symptoms isn't necessarily experiencing pain or unhappiness. It’s just that he doesn’t find it necessary to vocalize when he’s content, hungry, or seeking affection.
Most importantly, remember that if your cat doesn't purr as much or as loudly as other cats, it doesn't mean they don't feel cat love towards you. There are many other ways in which cats communicate their affection, such as headbutting, kneading, and licking.
It's important to note that if your cat suddenly stops purring or exhibits other changes in behavior, it could be a sign of concern. Cats may abruptly stop purring when they are in pain, stressed, or experiencing an illness. It's essential to monitor your cat's behavior and seek veterinary attention if necessary.
So, can you get your cat to purr? Well, it depends. While some cats are more vocal than others, you can try playing with your cat or giving them attention to see if it triggers purring. Additionally, you can experiment with how to pet your cat, as some cats may respond more positively to certain types of touch than others. Paying attention to your cat's body language can also help you better understand their moods and preferences.
Animal experts say there really isn’t much you can do to coax a non-purring cat to vocalize if they’re not typically a purrer. However, if your cat is on the quiet, modest side but is capable of purring, you can try a variety of things to encourage your cat to purr more.
Whether or not you are able to prod your non-purring cat to purr doesn't really matter. What is important is that you give him plenty of strokes, love taps, and gentle words of encouragement to ensure a purr-fectly healthy, happy kitty.
Cats communicate in many different ways. They may vocalize their desires, or they might let you know what they're thinking by using their eyes or tails.
Unlike dogs, who have a limited vocal range, cats make many different noises. In 1895, when cats were first becoming popular as domestic pets, a professor called Alphonse Leon Grimaldi actually developed a dictionary of cat language. He identified 17 different sounds cats make and attached an English word to each sound. While Grimaldi's work is no longer considered scientifically valid, it's true that cats say a lot with their voices.
But our pets can also use their body language to share their feelings. An upright tail, for instance, usually signifies a relaxed cat. A swiftly swishing tail might say, "I'm curious." A bushy tail often signals aggression or fear.
Overall, cat behavior and communication can be complex, but by paying attention to your pet's unique style of communication, you can better understand and strengthen your bond with your furry friend.
Cats have a variety of communication methods beyond purring. Here are a few ways your feline friend might be trying to tell you something:
Cats might not be as demonstrative with their affection as dogs, but they still have ways of showing they care. Here are a few signs your cat loves you:
Modkat luxury litter boxes and accessories are sure to make your feline friend happy no matter if they purr or not. Shop Modkat litter boxes and more today!🐈
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