What sound do cats make when they purr? - briefly
Cats produce a distinctive low-frequency vibrating sound when they purr, typically ranging from 25 to 140 Hertz. This sound is often associated with contentment and relaxation in cats.
What sound do cats make when they purr? - in detail
Cats produce a distinctive, low-frequency sound when they purr. This sound is generated by the vibration of muscles in the cat's larynx and diaphragm. The frequency range of a cat's purr typically falls between 25 and 150 Hertz, which is lower than the frequencies at which humans can vocalize. This low-frequency sound has been shown to have therapeutic effects on cats themselves, promoting bone density and healing processes. Additionally, purring is often associated with contentment and relaxation in cats, serving as a form of communication that signals well-being and comfort to both their feline companions and human caregivers. The unique physiological mechanism behind purring allows cats to produce this sound continuously, even when engaged in other activities such as eating or sleeping. This continuous purring is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that enhances the cat's ability to communicate its emotional state effectively.