True or False: A purring cat equals a happy cat.

 
purring cat tf

Answer: False



While it’s true that a purring cat is often a happy cat, that’s not always the case. If your cat is purring more often than usual and the purring is accompanied by other changes in behavior (e.g., reluctance to go up and down stairs or jump onto furniture; hiding; a change in their energy level), schedule a veterinary visit as soon as possible. Purring may be related to pain, along with other vocalizations such as hissing, meowing and growling. Our pets are “wired” to hide their illness as a carryover from their ancestors. In the wild, if their ancestors showed weakness, they could easily be targeted by predators. Finding the source of the discomfort is the first step in creating a treatment plan with your veterinarian.

General pet care questions, itching, digestive upset—no matter what, stay connected 24/7 with free Live Chat through the myVCATM app,* where our licensed veterinary professionals are always ready to answer your questions. >>

*Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.