Why do cats purr when you pet them? A guide to cat purrs

Updated 19th August 2025

Purring is one of the most common sounds a cat will make, and while many assume purring equals a happy cat, this isn’t always the case. Cats purr for many different reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why your cat might be purring…

Why do cats purr when you pet them?

Cats can purr when they’re feeling happy and safe - it’s a good sign if your cat purrs when you pet them. 

A feline purr helps to communicate that your cat feels relaxed and at ease. It’s also a sign of affection, as well as social bonding - so don’t be alarmed if your cat often purrs when you stroke them.

Why do kittens purr when you pet them?

Kittens purr for many of the same reasons that cats do - because they feel secure, relaxed and comfortable. 

Kittens may also purr when you pet them because they’re learning to communicate, and purring is one of the first ways a cat learns to communicate. The warmth a kitten gets from you when you stroke them may also remind them of nursing, which can trigger a purr.

Why doesn’t my cat purr?

It’s perfectly normal for cats not to purr very often - all cats have different personalities and ways of communicating.

If you think your cat doesn’t purr, it’s worth remembering that some cats purr in silence — so you’ll only know by feeling the vibrations when you next scooch up to give them a cuddle! 

Is my cat purring because they’re happy?

Yes, your cat might be expressing happiness by purring - it’ll be clear if the purr is a happy one as your cat will also seem relaxed. 

Cats express their feelings through sound, so just as we’d expressed happiness with a smile, your cat expresses their happiness with a purr. When a cat is purring, looking restful and relaxed, it’s safe to assume this is because they are feeling happy and content in their environment.

Is my cat purring because they’re hungry?

Yes, cats can sometimes purr because they’re hungry, or because they want something. Another reason cats purr is to ask their owners for something — such as food, attention, or whatever else they might need. These types of purrs are also called ‘solicitation purrs,’ which has a more urgent, cry-like sound to it. Sometimes, they can be intertwined with a meow, and more often than not can be heard around dinner time!

Is my cat purring because they’re in pain?

Yes, cats can purr when they are in pain or otherwise stressed. This is why cats purr in the most unlikely of scenarios, such as when giving birth, or at the vets. 

So as well as being a sign of affection, purring can be a calming mechanism that helps cats to calm down, soothe stress and tension. 

Do cats purr to heal themselves?

Yes, some scientists believe that the low-frequency vibration of a purr can help to heal bones and wounds, repair muscles and tendons, lessen swelling, and even act as a painkiller.

It’s not just cats, either — as it’s also been suggested that these feline superpowers can help us humans, too. In fact, cats are known to calm, soothe, and de-stress their humans (as well as reduce blood pressure), simply by being around them.

Do cats use purring to communicate? 

Yes, purring is a form of feline communication - it can indicate your cat is happy, hungry or in pain.

From making noises to their body language, cats communicate in many different ways, purring included. Kittens learn to purr when they’re just a few days old, and this is so they can communicate with their mother. As kittens are blind and deaf when they are first born, the mom’s purr also helps her kittens to find and nurse from her. 

Do all cats purr?

While most domestic cats do purr, some feral and wild cats will not. This can be for many reasons, from not wanting to attract predators to there simply being no need — after all, domesticated cats tend to be more vocal due to their relationship with humans. 

Big cats — such as lions, tigers, and leopards — also don’t purr, and this is because of the differences in their vocal chords. 

Can cats purr when they’re sick?

Yes, your cat may be able to purr when they’re sick. It really depends on the illness your cat is suffering from, but cats can purr when they’re in pain, feeling distressed, and as a form of pain and stress relief.

If you have any concerns about your cat's health, then seek advice from a vet. Remember, if you’re a TrustedHousesitters member you can access free 24/7 expert veterinary advice while on a sit, simply by calling your dedicatedVet Advice Line.

Useful resources

• Cat tail meanings: what’s your curious kitty really thinking?
• Why do dogs wag their tails?
• How do cats communicate with each other?
• Why does my cat stare at me?
• Understanding cat hissing: why cats hiss and how to respond