Mary Allen
Introduction: The Mystery of Big Cats’ Purring
Purring is one of the most endearing and comforting sounds that cats make. It is a low, rumbling sound that is often associated with contentment and relaxation. However, not all cats can purr. Big cats such as lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars cannot produce this sound. This has led scientists to wonder why big cats cannot purr, and what makes them different from their smaller cousins.
Understanding the Mechanism of Purring
Purring is a complex vocalization that is produced by the vibration of the vocal cords. It requires the contraction and relaxation of the laryngeal muscles, which causes the vocal cords to vibrate rapidly. This produces a low-frequency sound that is audible to humans and other animals. Purring is often associated with contentment, but it can also be produced when cats are in pain or distress. It is a unique vocalization that is only found in some species of cats, including domestic cats, cheetahs, and cougars.