
We all love the sound of a contented cat purring away on our laps, but did you know cats also purr to communicate other needs and emotions? Purring is not only a method of happy communication but also a defence mechanism cats use to help calm themselves in stressful or frightening situations.
A mother cat will often purr during labour to relieve her pain and discomfort. She may continue to purr after her kittens are born to lead them to her teats for nursing and to reassure them.