Cats purr to communicate comfort, build social bonds, and soothe themselves. Purring is created by rhythmic movement of the laryngeal muscles and may also support healing due to the vibration frequency.

All domestic cats can purr, along with some small wild species. Larger roaring species produce different vocal vibrations and cannot purr continuously.

Why does my cat purr at the vet?

Cats sometimes purr when they feel unsure or stressed. This may be a natural way to self soothe and promote calmness.

Why do cats purr?

Cat behaviour

Short answer: Cats purr to communicate comfort and connection, but they also purr when they are stressed or recovering. It is a multi purpose sound that helps them relax, bond, and possibly even heal.

Written by Paul Denman, Cat Welfare Writer at Kitten Kaboodle

This guide offers general information and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Key points at a glance

Cats purr in moments of comfort, connection, and relaxation.
Some cats also purr when they are unsure or trying to soothe themselves.
Purring involves rapid movement of small muscles in the larynx and creates a low vibration through the body.
The vibration may support healing and stress reduction.

How purring actually works

Purring is created when a cat rhythmically activates tiny muscles in the larynx. These muscles open and close the space around the vocal cords as the cat breathes in and out. This produces a steady vibration that you can hear and feel.

All domestic cats can purr, as well as some wild species. Larger roaring cats such as lions and tigers produce different vocal vibrations, so they cannot purr in the same continuous way.

Why cats purr

Most people associate purring with happiness, and that is often true. Cats commonly purr when they feel safe, warm, and connected to someone they trust. Many purr during gentle stroking, while settling down to sleep, or when they are near their favourite person.

Kittens also purr to help their mother locate them and confirm that feeding is going well. Adult cats may use the sound to signal friendliness or to request gentle attention.

Other reasons cats purr

Purring is more complex than simply being a sign of happiness. Some cats purr when they feel unsure or after stressful events. Behaviour specialists think this is a form of self soothing, similar to how humans take long, slow breaths to calm down.

Self comfort: purring in the carrier or at the vet.
Bonds and reassurance: purring around other animals or trusted people.
Healing support: low frequency vibrations may help reduce inflammation and promote recovery.

The possible healing benefits of purring

Vibrations in the 25 to 150 hertz range are linked with tissue repair and bone growth, and a cat’s purr sits comfortably in this range. This has led to the idea that purring may help the body recover or reduce stress that slows healing.

More research is needed, but the connection between vibration and recovery is scientifically plausible and is observed in several species.

How to understand what your cat’s purr means

To understand the meaning behind a purr, look at your cat’s body language. Relaxed muscles, soft eyes, and a loose posture usually indicate comfort. A tense body, tucked tail, or wide eyes may suggest that the cat is purring to cope with uncertainty.

Want the science behind the purr? Read our research based deep dive on Medium: Cats Purr on Autopilot .