The reason cats purr

A purr signals that a feline is happy and healthy. The reason kittens instinctively purr is to tell the nursing mother that "all is well." A kitten can't meow and nurse at the same time, but it can purr while nursing. The mother often purrs back. This is why your cat purrs when petted. Older cats purr when they play or approach other cats, signaling they are friendly and want to come closer.
Cats also purr when they are distressed, visit the veterinarian, are afraid, sick or injured. This is a cat's way of reassuring and calming itself. Purring is one way cats communicate with each other, signaling that they don't wish to fight. When your cat is purring in your lap, try purring back. Catnip is a sure way your cat will purr. It is an accepted fact that cat owners have lower blood pressure, especially in older people.