The furry critters outnumber us 5 to 1 in the world, so there’s no question that they matter. But what if you’re a conventional cat owner who doesn’t consider yourself particularly animal-wary?If you’re like many people, you probably have several other cats that make your heart pitter-patter when you hear the word ‘purr.’For some people this may be the only fur-ever option. It could also mean that their regular food supplier is cheap and has a small amount of kudos for good customer service (they won’t put your cat on store shelves next to one of these), or its simply that they aren’t fussy about food quality and flavor.Either way, it doesn’t mean you can ignore the potential health implications of your cat’s purring habits – especially if it’s frequenting your home at the same time as you do.
# The Why Factor: How tocheap cat food and why your cat will always purr
## Why is it so hard to stop making purring noises?
When we think of cats, we often associate them with their unique ability to purr. But why do cats purr, and why is it so hard for them to stop once they start? The answer lies in their anatomy and physiology.
Firstly, cats have a specialized muscle, called the laryngeal muscle, which can rapidly contract and relax. This muscle is responsible for opening and closing the vocal cords, allowing cats to produce a variety of vocalizations, including purring. Additionally, cats have a unique bone, called the hyoid bone, located in their throat. This bone is not attached to any other bones, but is instead supported by muscles and ligaments. When these muscles and ligaments contract, the hyoid bone vibrates, producing the distinct purring sound that we all know and love.
So why is it so hard for cats to stop purring once they start? The answer lies in the fact that purring releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Endorphins are also responsible for creating a sense of well-being and contentment. In other words, when a cat starts purring, they enter a state of relaxation and happiness. As a result, they are often reluctant to stop purring once they start.
## The science of why cats purr
Now that we understand the mechanics of purring, let’s take a closer look at why cats purr in the first place. While we often associate purring with contentment and happiness, there are actually a variety of reasons why cats purr.
One of the most common reasons for purring is to communicate. Cats use purring to communicate with their owners, other cats, and even other animals. For example, a mother cat will often purr to her kittens as a way of calming them down and promoting bonding. Similarly, a cat may purr to its owner as a way of expressing affection or seeking attention.
Another reason why cats purr is for self-soothing. Purring has been shown to have a calming effect on cats, reducing stress and anxiety. This is why cats will often purr when they are in pain or distress. Purring may also help cats to heal more quickly, as the vibrations produced by purring have been shown to promote bone growth and repair.
Finally, cats may also purr as a way of marking their territory. Purring produces a low-frequency vibration that can be felt by other cats, making it a useful tool for communication and territorial marking.
## The bottom line
In conclusion, cats are unique creatures with a variety of fascinating abilities. Purring is just one of the many ways in which cats communicate and interact with the world around them. While it can be tempting to dismiss purring as a simple noise, it is actually a complex physiological process that plays an important role in cat behavior and well-being.
If you are a cat owner, it is important to pay attention to your cat’s purring habits. While purring is generally a sign of contentment and happiness, it can also be a sign of pain or distress. If you notice any changes in your cat’s purring behavior, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat is healthy and happy.
In the end, whether you buy cheap cat food or the most expensive brand, your cat will always be there, purring away, reminding you of the joy and beauty of life. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the sweet sound of your furry friend’s purring.
