Generally speaking, when a cat purrs, it means that it's happy. It may mean that the cat is happy because of something that it's seeing, hearing, or even feeling. It may also mean that the cat is happy because it's getting a lot of attention from humans. But there's much more to a cat's purr than simple contentment.
How Cats Communicate
Cats use several visual and tactile signals to communicate. These include body postures, facial expressions, and the use of objects. They are also able to produce about 100 different vocalizations. Most people consider a cat's purr to be a way to express affection, but it is also used to ask for food or comfort. In addition, a purr can be a way to conceal a cry. It has also been described as the feline equivalent of a smile.
Cats also use pheromones — chemicals released from special glands around their bodies — to send messages to other cats and sometimes to their owners.
Sign Of Contentment
One of the most common ways cats express happiness is through purring. They may purr to let you know they are interested in what you are doing or to warn you not to do something. Purring is often accompanied by kneading — a throwback to when kittens kneaded on their mothers.
A tail held high, whiskers slightly forward, and relaxed posture all accompany contentment and often coincide with purring.
Self-Soothing Or Healing
During times of stress or pain, a cat may purr to self-soothe or heal. The frequency of a purring cat's vibrations has been shown to help in the healing of broken bones, tendons, and muscles. These frequencies are similar to those used for healing in human medicine and are also believed to be important in wound healing and reducing inflammation.
When a cat purrs, it can also help soothe respiratory distress related to heart disease, as the low-frequency vibrations of a purr can stimulate tissues to regenerate.
Sign Of Submission
Some behaviorists believe that purring can also be a sign of submission in cats. Some cats use their purrs to request food from their owners or to ask for attention. Others may purr to let other cats know that they are not a threat, or to soothe themselves after a fight, injury, or stressful situation.
If your cat is purring and showing other signs of discomfort, a veterinary checkup may be in order. Purring is not always a sign of happiness — when combined with lethargy or other symptoms, it can indicate a health issue.