Research shows a cat’s purr can heal bones and promote tissue repair.

Research suggests that the vibration is produced by muscles within the larynx, which dilate and constrict the glottis as the cat breathes.

In fact, cats often purr in stressful situations, during recovery, or even when facing death, hinting that the purr may function as a form of self-soothing or physical rejuvenation.

Behavioral experts, such as Marjan Debevere and Gary Weitzman, highlight the varied meanings behind a purr. Cats might purr to express nervousness, communicate with other cats, or simply as a way to encourage humans to feed them.