Thursday, July 30, 2009

cats and purring?

what does it mean when they purr?
Answers:
The cat's purr is a unique sound not only because it is limited to felines but also because it is a means of communication that is not truly a vocalization. Cats can purr when they are happy and also when they are injured, frightened, giving birth or even near death. Even cats being held for veterinary procedures such as x-rays or blood samples have been known to purr frequently. Sometimes the purr can be a sign of submission, indicating cooperation and avoidance of conflict with "a larger more powerful cat," for example, the vet, the groomer, etc).
Purring is caused by vibrations in the throat and has been observed in the behavior of wild cats, such as the cheetah, the puma and the smaller ocelot and serval. Big wild cats, such as lions and tigers, cannot purr because their throats are equipped for roaring. Therefore, it would seem that a cat could either purr or roar, but not both. (Don't tell the MGM lion!)

One can only speculate as to what function a purring state serves, as the animal utilizes so much energy in order to achieve it. Purring is a primeval force that has been passed down through many generations of cats, like some ancient, magical ritual. Some researchers believe that purring has to be deeply rooted in the animal's evolutionary sense of survival, and that this is supported by the fact that cats purr when injured. Perhaps it serves a healing purpose? It may also be connected to pain relief. Most agree that the purr cannot be solely a means of communication as cats purr when in the company of no one except their own feline selves.
i get so scared when they purr.
Usually it means that they are happy and content.When they feel cozy.
their happy and relaxed
contentment
Cats purr for a variety of reasons, it comforts them so it means they're not always happy when they do it even though it's most common. A female cat will often purr in labour or when a cat is in other pain as purring has a healing affect.
It means they are happy! But it could also mean they are in pain! (hard to understand but very true!)

Here's more about cat's body language and how to understand them!

http://www.iams.com/en_bi/jhtmls/nutriti.
love
It means they're happy. And they love you! :)
I agree with most. They are very content and happy. They will also purr when in pain.
I have heard it said that they purr for many reasons, when they are anxious, when they have pain, when they are happy and when they are asking to be fed. Also female cats purr when they are in labor.
usually it means they are relaxed and happy, but it can also mean that they have been hurt, as purring also helps them to heal themselves.

If the tail is not flicking with anxiety or anger, the purring should mean the cat is happy.

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