Cats are known for their trademark soothing purrs, but sometimes they might stop. If you’re a cat owner asking yourself, “Why doesn’t my cat purr anymore?” you’re not alone.
There are several potential reasons why your cat may have stopped purring. Read on to learn about these reasons and how to get your cat purring again!
How Exactly Do Cats Purr?
Purring refers to the gentle rumbling sound your cat makes when it’s curled up in your lap. Cats purr by using their larynx muscles to rapidly vibrate the vocal cords.
This vibration is what creates the soothing sound that we associate with a purring cat. Interestingly, the exact mechanism of how a purr is produced is still not fully understood by scientists.
Cats are able to purr both when they inhale and exhale, unlike other vocal sounds, which typically only occur during exhalation. When a cat breathes, air touches these twitching muscles, creating a purring vibration.
Why Do Cats Purr?
Cats are fascinating creatures, and one of their most endearing traits is their purring. But why do cats purr? The reasons are quite varied.
Contentment
When cats get what they want, whether it be food, attention, or anything else, they begin to purr. It’s often a sign they feel content and happy. Repeated gentle stroking can also make your cat purr, as it enjoys the sensation.
Communication
Cats also purr in different social situations. For instance, when a mother cat is with her kittens, you’ll hear a chorus of purrs. This is their way of communicating with each other. Newborn kittens are blind and deaf, and thus rely on the vibrations of their mother’s purr to guide their movements.
Self-Healing
Interestingly, cats may purr for self-healing. When they’re not feeling their best or are under stress, purring can act as a form of self-soothing.
The act of purring has been shown to release endorphins in cats, which are chemicals in the brain that relieve pain and provide a sense of well-being.
When cats are injured or not feeling well, the vibrations from purring can speed up the healing process. Domestic cats purr at a frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. This sound frequency is therapeutic for bone growth.
Potential Reasons Your Cats Stop Purring
If your cat suddenly stops purring, it might be noteworthy. Let’s explore some potential reasons behind this behavior change.
Quiet Purrers by Nature
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that not all cats purr loudly. In fact, some might have such a soft purr that you can hardly hear it.
This is normal for them, and they’re likely content. If your cat is one of these silent types, you might only feel the vibrating purrs when you’re cuddling them closely.
New Environment Jitters
If you’ve recently welcomed a new cat into your home, they might be feeling a bit anxious. Moving to a new place is a big change, and it can make cats feel nervous.
During this time, they may not purr as much as they’re still adjusting to their surroundings. Give them time, and as they become more comfortable, their purring may return.
Signs of Illness or Pain
If a cat stops purring suddenly, it could be a sign that they’re not feeling well, especially if they were frequent purrers before. Cats are masters at hiding their pain, so a change in behavior like this could indicate that something is wrong.
They could be experiencing discomfort, illness, or injury. If you suspect this is the case, it’s best to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Throat Troubles
Another reason your cat may have stopped purring is due to issues with their throat. Just like humans, cats can have throat irritation or inflammation that can affect their ability to purr.
This could be from a respiratory infection, allergies, or something stuck in their throat. If you notice any other symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty swallowing, it’s important to seek veterinary care.
How To Get a Cat to Purr
Purring is a natural behavior for cats. If your cat has stopped purring, there are ways you can encourage them to resume it.
Give Them Love
Cats usually purr when they feel happy and safe. One of the best ways to make them feel that way is by giving them lots of love and attention.
Spend time with your feline friends. Pet them gently and provide plenty of cuddles. Make sure they’re feeling calm and content.
Scratch Them In Their Favorite Spots
Another tip is to find their favorite spots to scratch. Just like us, cats have certain places they like to be touched. Often, it’s under their chin, behind the ears, or at the base of their tail.
Watch for their reaction when you pet them, and you’ll quickly learn where their sweet spots are. When you hit the right spot, they might start purring to show their enjoyment.
Give Them Their Own Comfortable Space
Make sure your cat has a cozy place to relax. Cats love having a warm, soft area where they can feel secure and take a nap.
This could be a cat bed, a cushion, or even a sunny spot on the window sill. When cats are calmer and in their comfort zone, they’re more likely to purr.
Check With Your Vet
If you suspect that your cat has stopped purring due to health reasons, you should get them checked by your vet.
The will probably be able to identify the underlying causes behind the behavior and diagnose the issue and find a solution.
Is It Weird If My Cat Doesn’t Purr?
If your kitty has always been quiet, it might just be the way they are. But if they used to purr and stopped, it can be really worrying. I hope this guide has been helpful in understanding why cats can stop purring.
If you feel there is something wrong health-wise, give a call to your vet ASAP.
