Purr: Difference between revisions

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== Purr ==


[[File:Cat_purring.jpg|thumb|right|A cat purring]]
{{Infobox medical condition
| name = Purr
| image = <!-- Image removed -->
| caption = <!-- Caption removed -->
| field = [[Veterinary medicine]]
}}


'''Purr''' is a vocalization made by certain species of [[cat]]s. It is a low, vibrating sound that is produced by the rapid movement of the muscles in the cat's larynx and diaphragm. Purring is commonly associated with contentment and relaxation in cats, although it can also be a sign of other emotions such as anxiety or pain.
'''Purr''' is a sound made by some species of [[felids]] and two species of [[genet]]s. It varies in loudness and tone among species and in the same animal. Although true purring is exclusive to [[felids]], other animals such as [[raccoons]] produce purr-like sounds.


=== Physiology ===
==Characteristics==
Purring is characterized by a continuous, soft, vibrating sound that is produced by the [[larynx]] and [[diaphragm]] muscles. The sound is often associated with a state of relaxation, but it can also occur in other situations, such as when an animal is in pain or frightened.


The exact mechanism behind purring is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the rapid contraction and relaxation of the cat's laryngeal muscles. This causes the vocal cords to vibrate, producing the characteristic purring sound. The frequency of the purr can vary between cats, with some producing a higher-pitched purr than others.
==Mechanism==
The exact mechanism of purring is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the rapid twitching of the [[laryngeal muscles]]. This causes a sudden separation of the [[vocal cords]], during both inhalation and exhalation, producing a sound that is audible as a purr.


=== Function ===
==Function==
Purring is thought to serve several functions:
* '''Communication''': It may be a form of communication between a mother and her kittens, or between cats and humans.
* '''Healing''': Some studies suggest that the vibrations produced during purring may promote healing and reduce pain.
* '''Relaxation''': Purring is often associated with a state of relaxation and contentment.


[[File:Cat_purring_on_lap.jpg|thumb|left|A cat purring on a person's lap]]
==Species that Purr==
* [[Domestic cat]]s (''Felis catus'')
* [[Cheetah]]s (''Acinonyx jubatus'')
* [[Bobcat]]s (''Lynx rufus'')
* [[Genet]]s


Purring serves multiple functions for cats. It is commonly associated with contentment and relaxation, often occurring when a cat is being petted or cuddled. Purring can also be a form of communication, as cats may purr to signal their presence or to solicit attention from humans or other cats.
==See also==
 
* [[Cat communication]]
Furthermore, purring has been found to have potential healing properties. The vibrations produced during purring have been suggested to promote the healing of bones and tissues, as well as to reduce pain and inflammation. This may explain why cats often purr when they are injured or unwell.
* [[Animal vocalization]]
 
=== Cultural Significance ===


Purring has long been a subject of fascination and admiration among cat lovers. It is often seen as a sign of a cat's contentment and affection towards its human companions. In many cultures, cats are considered to be symbols of comfort and companionship, and their purring is seen as a soothing and calming presence.
==References==
{{Reflist}}


=== References ===
==External links==
 
* [https://www.wikimd.com/wiki/Purr Purr on WikiMD]
<references />
 
== See Also ==
 
* [[Cat behavior]]
* [[Cat communication]]
* [[Cat anatomy]]


[[Category:Cats]]
[[Category:Animal sounds]]
[[Category:Animal behavior]]
[[Category:Sounds of animals]]
[[Category:Cat behavior]]
[[Category:Cat behavior]]
[[Category:Veterinary medicine]]

Latest revision as of 20:27, 30 December 2024


Purr
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Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms N/A
Complications N/A
Onset N/A
Duration N/A
Types N/A
Causes N/A
Risks N/A
Diagnosis N/A
Differential diagnosis N/A
Prevention N/A
Treatment N/A
Medication N/A
Prognosis N/A
Frequency N/A
Deaths N/A


Purr is a sound made by some species of felids and two species of genets. It varies in loudness and tone among species and in the same animal. Although true purring is exclusive to felids, other animals such as raccoons produce purr-like sounds.

Characteristics[edit]

Purring is characterized by a continuous, soft, vibrating sound that is produced by the larynx and diaphragm muscles. The sound is often associated with a state of relaxation, but it can also occur in other situations, such as when an animal is in pain or frightened.

Mechanism[edit]

The exact mechanism of purring is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the rapid twitching of the laryngeal muscles. This causes a sudden separation of the vocal cords, during both inhalation and exhalation, producing a sound that is audible as a purr.

Function[edit]

Purring is thought to serve several functions:

  • Communication: It may be a form of communication between a mother and her kittens, or between cats and humans.
  • Healing: Some studies suggest that the vibrations produced during purring may promote healing and reduce pain.
  • Relaxation: Purring is often associated with a state of relaxation and contentment.

Species that Purr[edit]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

<references group="" responsive="1"></references>


External links[edit]