My Cat Purrs, What Does It Mean?

So, I was chilling with my cat the other day (as one does), and she started purring like a tiny, fluffy motorboat. I immediately felt calm, cozy... and also suspicious. Like, why are you purring? What are you planning? Are you trying to distract me from the hairball you just coughed up behind the couch?

Naturally, I fell down a cat-purring rabbit hole. And here’s what I found—so now you don’t have to Google it at 2 AM like I did.

The “Feel-Good” Answer:

Cats often purr when they’re happy, relaxed, or just vibing in your lap like royalty. It’s basically their version of saying, “Hey, I’m good. You’re good. We’re good.”

Fun fact: A cat’s purr frequency is around 25 Hz, which—get this—is scientifically known to promote healing in bones and tissues.
So yes, your cat is a walking, purring little doctor. Without the degree. Or the empathy.

The Plot Twist: Cats Also Purr When They're Not Okay

Here’s the wild part: cats also purr when they’re stressed, injured, or even scared.
(Yeah, thanks for being confusing, Whiskers.)

It’s kind of their way of self-soothing. Like how we hum in the shower after a long day, or talk to ourselves while looking for snacks we swore we weren’t gonna eat.

So if your cat is purring and hiding under the bed or looking anxious, it might not be a “happy purr” but more of a “send help but don’t touch me” purr.

Oh, and Let’s Not Forget: The Manipulation Purr

Cats are smart. Like diabolically smart. Some researchers believe cats have developed a special kind of purr that includes a higher-pitched cry to get our attention—especially when they want food.

You ever notice your cat gets extra purry around feeding time? That’s not love. That’s marketing.
That’s a tiny, furry sales pitch.

 So, Why Do Cats Purr?

• Because they’re happy and living their best life
• Because they’re trying to heal or calm themselves
• Because they want something from you
•  Or… because they’re mysterious little creatures who enjoy keeping us emotionally confused

Anyway, next time your cat starts purring, just know it could mean “I love you”... or “I demand snacks, human.” Either way, it’s adorable. And slightly manipulative. But that’s why we love them, right?