A cat’s purr is proving to be more than just a happy sound. New research shows that purrs have healing properties with a unique frequency.
Ever snuggled up with your favorite feline and heard their calming purr start up? You might even experience a wave of calm wash over you, wondering why they purr like that. As a cat lover, this is a sign you have happy cats.
But it’s not just an “aww” moment - there’s new science behind why you feel so blissful when your kitty is purring! And these healing properties are deeply fascinating for both our whiskered companions and us.
In this blog, you’ll learn why your cat purrs and how it benefits them. Plus, you’ll discover why you turn into a cuddle puddle when they rev up their little motors and their potential to heal. We always knew they had secret powers!
Why Do Cats Purr?
For most of you, when you think of a purring cat, you probably picture a kitty sprawled out in the sun, basking in blissful contentment. And most people rightly associate this soothing sound with your cat's expression of happiness and satisfaction. But as researchers dive deeper into feline behaviors, the story behind purring proves much richer.
Research from the King’s College in London discovered the gentle hum of our feline friends is a harmony of physiology and emotions. [1]
Cats purr in a variety of situations depending on the emotion they’re experiencing. It could be:
- Joy
- Anxiety
- Fright
- Pain
And as you know, treats are always a great way to get their purr going (who doesn’t love a tasty bite?). Most shockingly though, cats have also been observed to purr when they sense their human caregivers aren't feeling well - almost as if they're trying to comfort them with their therapeutic hum.
But what actually causes this universally recognized sound? The current theory suggests the sound starts with a constriction of the glottis, a part located within the larynx (aka the “voice box”). As your cat's larynx muscles relax, it creates a rhythmic vibration whenever they inhale or exhale. That’s what makes that melodic resonance we have come to recognize and love!
Cats experience a number of emotions like joy, fear and pain that can trigger their purring mechanism.
The 5 Healing Properties of Purring
Fun fact: Cats suffer from far fewer incidences of joint problems and bone cancer compared to their non-purring counterparts (we’re talking to you, doggos!). And it’s well-known in veterinary circles that cats have the ability to heal quickly from their own broken bones. With new research, it's exciting to learn that cat purrs can possibly help humans heal faster too.
This new research shows a cat’s purr has the following potential benefits for themselves and maybe us humans too:
- Endorphin booster: The gentle purr of a feline triggers the release of "feel-good" endorphins within their brains, elevating their mood. But this effect isn't limited to our four-legged friends. Humans can experience reduced stress hormone levels too, promoting health benefits like blood pressure reduction.
- Healing frequencies: Cats possess a unique purring frequency between 25 and 140 Hz. Early research shows this is a game-changer for humans! In fact, humans exposed to similar frequencies have shown enhanced tendon repair, wound healing and bone repair.[2]
- Easier breathing: Felines with respiratory issues often see improvements when they purr. Such soothing vibrations could be why cats face fewer heart issues related to respiratory distress compared to dogs and ourselves.
- Stress reduction: Our feline companions do more than keep mice at bay, their purrs work wonders in keeping our anxiety away too. The calming vibration of their purr is a proven antidote to human stress and anxiety.
- Migraine relief: Got a thumping headache? Anecdotal evidence suggests people with migraines find relief when they’re close to a purring cat. Some folks swear by this feline cure! Just another reason our fuzzy friends are simply purr-fect for the job.
So the next time you're curled up with your whiskered buddy, remember it's more than just a cozy moment; you might be soaking in some therapeutic vibes. Beneath those twitchy whiskers and playful glances, our cats offer a unique kind of wellness boost that make our days purr-tastic!
Unlocking the Secret Healing Power of the Cat's Purr
In the age-old battle of cats versus dogs, with these new findings, cats might just have a secret advantage. Their subtle vibrations, often felt during your quietest moments with your feline friend, do more than just symbolize contentment. They’re being discovered as a natural healing mechanism that not only benefits your kitty cats, but potentially you as well - their doting owner. As we continue to explore this intriguing area, one thing remains clear: cats, with their soothing purrs, truly are a remarkable gift to our lives.
We're here to share insights and revel in the wonderful world of pets with you, but always remember to check in with professionals regarding pet and personal health.
References:
[1] inspirethemind.org/post/behind-cats-purrs-and-their-healing-power-sharing-the-benefits
[2] ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3586310
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