Many people accept cat purring as a natural behavior without delving into its reasons. While some cats purr sparingly, others do it frequently, and this variation in behavior is quite interesting.
Some cats purr almost exclusively when they’re alone, while others purr even just by seeing you walk into the room. This range of behavior suggests that there might be more to purring than meets the eye. Many opinions exist, but I believe that cats don’t purr as a form of communication. They purr when they’re happy, comfortable, or anxious and seeking comfort.
My perspective has evolved over time. Initially, I considered communication as one of the reasons for cat purring, but with more experience, I now lean towards the idea that purring is more about pleasure and comfort. Here’s why I believe cats purr when they see their humans:
1. Your cat isn’t trying to communicate happiness; they’re genuinely happy, which often results in purring. While this isn’t always the case, it’s a common association.
2. Cats usually purr when they’re not stressed, so seeing you might alleviate their stress. For instance, my cat Bjorn was stressed living outside due to territorial disputes with neighboring cats.
In conclusion, the reasons behind a cat’s purring are more complex than simply being a form of communication. It’s a behavior deeply rooted in their emotional state and comfort level.
When my new cat, Bjorn, first arrived, there was initial tension with my first cat, Avery. Fortunately, that has been resolved, and now they are inseparable friends. Initially, Bjorn only purred when it was just the two of us and I was petting him, indicating that stress could inhibit his purr. This led me to believe that when a cat purrs out of happiness, especially upon seeing you, it’s because they are extremely relaxed and feel safe around you.
