Japanese researchers say your cat’s purr could actually be a secret message
Humans have come a long way, from treating animals like playmates to standing up for their rights. While we're nowhere close to a world where every creature feels safe, we are in the process of trying to build a meaningful connection with them. Today, more and more people are interested in understanding how their pets think, feel, and communicate, rather than just owning them as showpieces. Now, unlike dogs, cats have been stereotyped as naturally unaffectionate or inexpressive; however, a study by Japanese researchers has shattered this very belief, revealing that a cat's purr isn't random, but it's their distinctive way of interacting.
The groundbreaking study by PLOS has successfully identified potential genes behind cat purrs, and as per a report by Science Alert, this research could reveal why felines make these soft, gentle noises. To arrive at conclusions, Yume Okamoto, a biologist from Kyoto University, and his colleagues identified a gene linked to purring and other forms of cat vocalizations by examining the DNA and behavior of 280 pet cats. According to their findings, cats with a short-type androgen receptor gene, especially the male felines, were reported to purr more and be more vocal towards humans than those with a long-type androgen receptor gene.
When researchers analyzed this particular gene across 11 cat species, they found that the long-type version only existed in domestic cats. Interestingly, fishing cats and leopard cats, which are known to be their closest relatives, also didn't have the long-type androgen receptor gene. Now, this, perhaps, explains that the specific receptor gene appeared only during cats' domestication. Moving on, the author shared that research found that domesticated cats, like many pure breeds, are raised by humans, and hence can survive just fine without making a lot of noise. However, the mixed breeds or the stray cats need strong communication skills to survive in the wild, and this is perhaps why domesticated cats are more likely to have the long-type gene that makes them less noisy. "Through our research, we hope to deepen our understanding of cats and contribute to building happier relationships between cats and humans," Okamoto shared, talking about how his research could possibly help humans understand cats better, thus defying the stereotype around felines.
Moreover, Okamoto revealed that purring and vocalization allow cats to connect with their humans or other felines for their needs. So, next time you see your cat purring, don't think that it's some random, unexplainable behavior; they're either demanding a little attention or seeking some kind of support. To explain further, the one-of-a-kind research shared that cats also purr when they are in pain or are injured. "This result aligns with the association between purring and vocal communication as strategies for seeking attention or support, benefiting survival through interactions with both cats and humans," Okamoto and his team state in their paper. Additionally, some researchers say purring could be their healing mechanism. Besides, another report by Pet MD reveals that cats also purr when they're either greeting someone or are anxious about something.