Cats have many ways to communicate. Their meow is a very famous and unique sound. They also hiss and chatter. But some cat parents love how their pets purr. It’s soothing and calming. The tiny rumble is relaxing because it’s quiet and subtle. We are so accustomed to cats purring that we may get get worried if our cat does not purr.
Below you will learn more about purring, how cats they purr, why their purr and the reasons why some cats purr louder than normal.
Cat purring louder than normal
Your cat may be purring louder than normal simply because she is in an excellent mood. There is usually nothing to worry when they purr loudly. It may become a matter of concern when a cat purrs and shows other signs of distress or discomfort such as keeping distance, standing aloof, twitching her tail or other signs of stress or anxiety. When something is wrong, their purring can also turn into growling.
Cats use purring to calm themselves during stressful situations. Check to see other symptoms such as a fever, mucus discharge from eyes or nose and signs of injury. Have your pet checked by a vet.
Purring loudly
There are cats that are naturally more high-toned that may purr louder than others. There are some large breeds like Maine Coons that sound deep, loud and rumbling when they purr. Other breeds tend to have quieter purrs.
Aside from this, purrs are louder with cats than kittens. When your cat’s body is growing bigger, it develops a louder and deeper sounding purr. Kitten purrs are usually high and very quiet.
What is purring?
Purring is the most common sound cats make. It’s their tonal trembling sound. Every purr varies in loudness and tone and is unique to every cat.
There are a number of theories over the years as to how cats purr. Now, most say that purring begins in the brain. A rhythmic, repetitive neural oscillator sends messages to the laryngeal muscles, causing them to twitch at the rate of 25 to 150 vibrations per second (Hz). This causes a sudden separation of the vocal cords, during both inhalation and exhalation – the unique feline vibrato.
Why do cats purr?
A cat’s purr is usually associated with contentment, happiness and comfort. They purr when they are in a good mood, feeling relaxed and happy. They also purr to express affection. When they are being petted, they reply with their snuggles along with their purrs.
Purrs are also a means of communication. Mother cats purr to lead their kittens to them for food and warmth. Kittens are born with their eyes shut and ear canals closed, which makes them functionally blind and deaf for their few weeks of life. Purring helps kittens bond with their mother cat and tell them they’re doing fine.
Cat experts believe that purring helps cats heal faster. The low frequency purrs cause vibrations within the body that can heal bones and wounds, build and repair tendons, ease breathing and decrease pain and swelling.
Although cats typically purr when they’re content, they may also do that when they are frightened or threatened. They also purr when in pain or in labor, when ill or injured or even near death.
Conclusion
Purring is normal for cats. It’s usually associated with being content and happy. It is their way of expressing happiness, communicating to other cats and even humans and calming themselves. There is nothing much to worry if your pet is purring loudly when they are looking relaxed and comfortable. Some cats are just naturally high-toned that makes their purr louder than others.