Purring is one of the most recognisable ‘cat sounds’, and is widely held as a positive sign: visions of snuggly lap cuddles with a purring cat are universally pleasant amongst cat lovers. Purring is a common feline vocalisation and is actually used in both positive and negative ways, although the frequency, volume and triggers for this behaviour vary. However, not all cats purr, and this phenomenon can occur for a variety of reasons. 

Table of contents

What is a purr? 

Purring is actually quite a complex sound, thought to be produced due to vibrations in the cat’s larynx as they breathe. Cats can purr whilst inhaling and exhaling, and can produce other sounds at the same time1! Most cat species are able to purr, although notably, lions cannot. 

The functions of purring

A purring cat is generally seen as comfortable, and happy with their lot in life. This is true, and a purr can certainly be a sign of contentment. However, there are also some lesser-known reasons behind the humble purr. 

Domestic pet cats may use the purr as a learnt behaviour to solicit attention from owners. Cats love attention, and they quickly learn the best ways of getting it from their devoted human companions!

When a queen has a litter of kittens, she will purr to guide them in her direction. New-born kittens are vulnerable, being both blind and deaf, but can sense the vibration of a purr to guide them.

Cats also purr when stressed, or in pain. It is thought that the purr serves two functions in these scenarios. Firstly, purring releases endorphins to help calm the cat when frightened or in pain. Secondly, purring has been found to operate at frequencies found to promote healing and growth,2 so may actually be advantageous at times of illness or injury.

Why do some cats not purr?

Now we know all about purring and why it happens, it’s time to tackle the tricky question of why some cats just don’t purr, or perhaps stop purring at some stage. It may be upsetting for owners to have a non-purring cat, when it is typically seen as such a positive vocalisation and sign of feline happiness.

1) Individuality

Some cats just seem to prefer to communicate in other ways to purring, such as using their body language and posture, or other vocalisations such as a meow. Your cat may show they are happy and contented by giving you a series of slow blinks. This is a sign of love and trust from a kitty!

2) They never learnt

Cats rely highly on their early experiences for much of their learnt behaviours. Your cat may not purr if they were separated early from their mother, or never heard her purr. If your pet was originally a feral, or had a feral mother, this may also play a role: feral cats are generally quieter than their domestic relatives, possibly as a defence against predators.

There is also the possibility that some cats are just unable to purr! Perhaps they have a mild anatomical variation of the vocal cords, or an abnormality in the nervous system communicating the need to purr. If your cat has never purred, this may just be the norm for them and nothing to be concerned about.

3) Laryngeal disease

If your cat used to purr, but has stopped doing so, there may be a problem with their larynx or vocal cords. This may also affect other vocalisations such as meowing, and can also decrease appetite and reduce water intake. Potential problems include infections, inflammation, tumours and neurological disease. If your cat has lost their voice, or seems unwell, then seek veterinary attention. 

4) Other illness

Cats have strong survival instincts! When ill or injured, cats often go quiet and hide away somewhere dark and safe. If your cat is quieter than usual, hiding away or not eating well, they may be unwell. Pop them to a vet for a check-up!

5) Stress

Similarly to the above, stress and anxiety can elicit major behavioural changes in cats. These sensitive souls are very reactive to change, and anxiety can be triggered by new pets, new members of the household, a change to routine or environment, building work or loud noises, to name a few. A stressed cat may present in different ways, including hiding away more, toileting outside a litter tray, scratching furniture, altered interactions with other pets and owners including aggression, changes to vocalisation and altered eating habits. 

If your cat has started acting differently at home, including a change to their purring and other interactions with you, there may be an underlying stressor. Seek professional advice from a veterinary surgeon, or you may need a qualified behaviourist. 

Purring: final thoughts

The purr is thought of as a fairly ubiquitous feline sound, but not all cats purr! If your cat has never purred, it may well be that they can’t, never learnt or just chose not to communicate in this fashion. If, however, your cat was a purring fluffball and has suddenly stopped, there may be an underlying problem – either medical or behavioural. Always take your cat to the vet if you are concerned about their health. 

References

  1. Frazer Sissom, D., Rice, D. & Peters, G. (1991) ‘How cats purr’ Journal of Zoology 223(1) pp. 67-68
  2. Von Muggenthaler, E. (2001) ‘The felid purr: a healing mechanism?’ The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 110(5)