Why cats stop purring

March 02, 3 min read. Nothing comforts like a cat's purr, especially when you are unwinding for the day or settling in for the night. Purring is believed to lower blood pressure , strengthen bones and reduce the risk of heart attacks. So, when a cat fails to purr , you may be left feeling cheated and wondering whether your cat is unhappy, stressed, or unhealthy. Scientists still don't understand fully how a cat is able to produce this calming, therapeutic sound. It is thought to be connected to the vibration of the vocal cords in conjunction with inhaling and exhaling.

The pitch and intensity may change as the cat breathes in and out. Experts surmise that purring is a way for kittens and momma cats to communicate with each other. When these babies become toddlers and adult cats, purring takes on other functions, such as asking for attention, socializing with other cats, or expressing contentment. If your cat purred and suddenly stopped, you should see a vet, especially if the change is accompanied by lethargy and decreased appetite.

Your kitty could have something else going on that needs to be addressed. Instead, your non-purring kitty may use facial expressions or body language to solicit a request for food or affection. The purr has developed as a low-energy way to keep bones and tissues in good condition while they rest.

And the purr may not just be of benefit to the cats themselves. Petting a cat has long been seen as a form of stress relief — cat ownership could cut the risk of stroke or heart disease by as much one-third.

Those same frequencies cats purr at might also be doing good to us as well. It calms us and pleases us, like watching waves against a beach. Haddon agrees. The purr from a happy cat may also be of benefit to human health Credit: Alamy.

Most of us feed the cat before ourselves, which shows how effective their communication is. With this deeper knowledge, the bond between cat and owner can only grow. If you liked this story, sign up for the weekly bbc. However, cats purr to communicate other emotions and needs, too. For instance, if you pick your cat up, they will either purr because they like it, or because they are nervous. Purring also helps a kitten and mother bond, and mother cats use purring as a lullaby.

Relief - Many cats purr when hurt or in pain. Is your cat pestering you around dinnertime, purring insistently? It may be hungry. Cats seem to purr with greater urgency when hungry. Is he purring at you through YouTube?

Maybe he's encouraging you to finish the story you're writing. This was my soundtrack for writing this piece. You are welcome. Danielle Venton is a science writer who fosters a special love for bugs, plants, mountains, books and gorgeous space photos. Contributor Twitter. Topics Biology cats.