The evolutionary purpose behind felines purring is being unveiled as scientists, veterinarians, and behaviorists are diligently searching and researching the evolutionary origins of purring. This article will explore the physiological and behavioral implications of this adaptive behavior in order to gain a better understanding of the evolutionary purpose of purring.
I. Overview of Cat Purring
Unravelling the Mystery: Cat purring has captivated humans for centuries, leaving us with many questions. What makes cats purr? How do cats purr? How do cats control their purring? What evolutionary purpose does purring serve?
This section provides an overview of the mysteries behind cat purring and how they have evolved over centuries to serve different purposes.
- The Mechanics Behind Purring
- Behavioral Purposes of Purring
- Social Purposes of Purring
- Physiological Purposes of Purring
The Mechanics Behind Purring: It has been hypothesized that purring results from the laryngeal muscles and the muscles of the laryngeal cartilages that vibrate to create sound. It is believed that cats can voluntarily control their purring by controlling their respiratory muscles and the vibration of the laryngeal muscles.
Behavioral Purposes of Purring: Cat purring is thought to have a calming effect that helps cats stay relaxed and in control in stressful situations. Cats may also use purring when they feel safe and content, for example when they are around humans they trust and are comfortable with.
Social Purposes of Purring: Cats have been observed purring when they are hungry or sick, suggesting that purring is a form of communication to solicit help from their caregivers. Cats may also use purring to signal peaceful intentions towards other cats in their environment.
Physiological Purposes of Purring: Studies have suggested that cat purring may have healing qualities and cats may purr to reduce the pain associated with injuries or illness. It is also believed that purring helps cats strengthen their bones and tissues during healing, aiding in tissue repair.
II. Theory of Communication through Purring
The theory of communication through cat purring is a topic of much intrigue. Cats, particularly house cats, exhibit an array of behaviors that hint at a complex and multifaceted form of communication. As cats do not possess a vocal organ, it is thought that they rely on vibrations from the larynx to create a sound known as purring. The vibration is created as air passes over the cat’s vocal cords, usually when the cat is content. Some cats also tend to purr when in distress or pain, making the communication double-pronged, and leading to the realization that the purr is used for multiple purposes and not just to communicate a feeling of contentment.
- Multi-purpose Tool - Purring is used not only to show affection or contentment, but also to communicate distress and pain. Depending on the situation, the meaning and intensity of which can change.
- Vocalization of Emotion – The purr can be used as a sign that the cat is feeling well, safe, and secure in its environment. They can also use the sound to communicate their wants or needs.
- A Social Affirmation – When cats purr around humans or other cats, it is believed to serve as a way of expressing peace and friendliness.
Though purr-irrigation helps cats bond with other cats and humans alike, the true purpose of it is yet to be understood. It is thought that due to years of evolutionary development, cats have come to rely on purring as a form of communication, allowing them to show their feelings or state-of-mind. Many feel that the purr may be playing a major role in sustaining the connection between cats and humans that dates back millennia, but this is subjective and has yet to be proven.
III. Benefits of Purring for Cats
Purring: A Self-Healing Home Remedy
Cats purr as a form of self-healing, similar to other animals who lick their wounds to facilitate healing. When cats purr, they generate vibrations that promote their bone health and healing of any wounds the cat may have. The vibration that cats create while purring is known to increase bone density and break down any swellings they may have. It is a self-care home remedy not just for cats, but even for human beings; using vibrations to heal can reduce scarring, inflammation, and promote healing.
Stress: Combatting Anxiety
Cats also purr as a way to reduce stress. Purring is a form of self-soothing and calming for cats, and can help them self-regulate emotions and combat feelings of anxiety or unease. This calming effect has been seen to work in people too, with the sensation of vibrations acting as a sort of meditation and letting the cat relax and focus their attention away from any kind of stress.
Regulate Blood Pressure
Purring can also help regulate cats’ blood pressure and other body functions, promoting their general well-being. The vibrations cats generate when purring have been known to increase blood flow and oxygenation, making cats healthier overall and helping to prevent injuries. Cats often purr when they are in close contact and comfortable with their owners, forming a connection with the people they love and know.
Other Benefits of Purring
- Speeds up recovery from disease or injury
- Nurtures psychological comfort and well-being
- Supports quality sleep
- Enriches communication with human companions
IV. Historical Evolution of Cat Purring
Cats have a remarkable capacity for producing different types of purring sounds. But why do cats purr? To understand the evolutionary purpose of purring, it is important to take a look into the history of cat purring.
The Dawn of Domestic Purring
- DNA evidence suggests that cats were domesticated in Ancient Egypt over 4,000 years ago.
- This is when cats first started purring.
Changes Through the Ages:
- Cats’ purring changed over time as domesticated cats spread throughout the world.
- The form of purrs cats make today is unlike anything heard in the past.
Modern Purring Patterns:
- Scientists believe that cats began using purring as a form of communication.
- By studying the sounds cats make, researchers have identified five different purring patterns.
- Each pattern has a distinct meaning, such as “I’m content” or “I need help.”
V. Evidence Supporting the Evolutionary Purpose of Cat Purring
Various theories have been put forth to unravel the underlying evolutionary purpose of cats purring. According to one evolutionary theory, cats began purring to survive naturally, and over time, the sound has been an important way for cats to express contentment and wellness.
Bonding Benefits of Cat Purring
Studies have found that cats purring has a bonding effect between cats and humans. It has been shown that the sound can stimulate endorphin production in humans, leading to a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Furthermore, cats purring has also been found to have a calming effect on humans and even other cats due to its low-pitched frequency.
Healing Properties of Cat Purring
Recent research has found that purring may have healing properties for cats too. Scientists have proposed that the vibrations produced by a cat’s purr can stimulate bone growth, reduce pain, and even help heal wounds.
The frequency of a cat’s purr is believed to be beneficial for its own health due to its therapeutic effects. By purring, cats produce vibrations in a range between 25-150 Hz. This type of low-frequency vibration is believed to help cats with bone healing, repair, flexibility and strength. Additionally, studies suggest that vibrational healing can also help cats deal with pain and stress.
Communication Tool
In addition to the healing and bonding effects, cats purring is thought to be a communication tool for cats. Studies have found that cats use purring to show contentment and affection to humans, as well as other cats. Cats may also use purring as a way to maintain contact and communication with other cats, and to express feelings of well-being.
It is clear that the mystery of why cats purr is much deeper than originally anticipated; however, researchers are making headway in understanding why cats purr. With further research, the evolutionary purpose of cat purring can be further illuminated in the future.
Karmen Grier is a versatile writer who effortlessly delves into diverse subjects, ranging from travel and lifestyle to health and wellness. With a warm and approachable tone, she invites readers to join her in exploring new experiences and finding balance in an ever-evolving world.