Big Cats Vs Small Cats Cats are divided into two major groups, big cats (greater cats) and small cats (lesser cats). It doesn’t necessarily refer to the size though, big cats lack the ability to purr but are able to roar. Whereas small cats like our domestic companions, have the ability to purr but cannot roar. Big cats have a floating hyoid bone which is not rigid enough to support purring. Even though it is quite large in comparison, the cheetah above is considered a small cat just like your pet at home. Why Cats Purr Kittens will often purr shortly after birth. We assume cats purr when they are happy, but research is showing that our companions do this for other reasons as well. Cats will purr sometimes if they are frightened or if they are injured. Researchers believe this is a way for the cat to comfort themselves when in distress. It is kind of like thinking happy thoughts when you are in a tough spot or maybe it is drawing back to when they were kittens trying to gain assistance from their mother. Cat Healing Powers The scientific field of bioacoustics is shedding light onto some of the health benefits cats have by purring. Cats purr at a very specific frequency between 20-140Hz. This frequency correlates with enhanced healing and increased bone density. Your feline companion may not be the only one to benefit from these healing sound waves. They have been shown to promote mental wellbeing and physiological benefits similar to what your cat receives in humans as well.
One of the top researchers in this bioacoustics field, Dr. Elizabeth von Muggenthaler, suggests that the frequency of a cat’s purr is the key to the successful bone health of cats. Dogs are far more likely to suffer from broken bones than cats. Also, cats bone fractures heal at a faster rate.
It seems that there is more to the purr than what meets the eye.