Why do cats purr?
We’ve all heard cats meow and hiss, but why do they purr? There are a
number of theories out there - from the commonly held belief that they are simply
happy, to British comedian Eddie Izzard’s light-hearted suggestion that they are
impersonating a drill.
While they do purr when tickled or caressed to show their appreciation for
attention, cats also make the noise when not in our company. The purring noise is a
consistent pulsing sound that occurs while they both inhale and exhale breath. The
word ‘purr’ is a great example of onomatopoeia and refers to the constant noise which
ranges in frequency between 25 and 150 hertz.
inhale/exhale 吸气/吐气
For a long time, scientists debated how cats purred. Most people believe that
the cat’s brain signals the laryngeal muscles to vibrate and function like a valve,
opening and closing the space between the vocal cords. What triggers this reaction is
debated. Some argue that the cat intends to purr, while others say it may be due to
endorphins released by the brain as a reaction to pleasure, or pain.
vibrate 震动/valve 阀/真空管 vocal cords 声带/trigger 触发
According to Leslie A. Lyons, an assistant professor at the School of
Veterinary Medicine at the University of California, cats often purr while stressed,
such as when they head to the vets or are recovering from an injury. So what are the
potential benefits of this ‘drilling’ sound? Some scientists believe the vibrations that
ripple through the cats’ bodies may actually promote muscle development, heal bones
and injuries, ease breathing and lessen pain. It could even help to soothe discomfort in
a similar way to a child sucking their thumb.
vet-veterianrian
So, the purring of a cat may have more uses than just telling you they’re
enjoying attention. It’s also important to remember that not all cats can purr. Some
bigger felines, like lions, can’t, and only roar. So, the next time you hear a roar, it
probably isn’t your pussy cat, and you might need to run. felines 猫科动物
Answer the following questions:
1. True or false: cats purr when they breathe in and out.
2. Why does Eddie Izzard compare purring to drilling?
While they do purr when tickled or caressed to show their appreciation for attention
3. What is the word ‘buzz’ an example of?
purr’
4. Why might the brain release endorphins?
as a reaction to pleasure, or pain
5. Do all cats purr?
No
Choose the most appropriate words to fill in the blanks
1. If one ___ exhalation _____ too deeply, they may cough.
exhale exhalation exhales exhaling
2. Listen to that tiger ___ roars _____. It’s terrifying.
roared roars roaring was roaring
3. The seat ____ vibrates ____ to massage your back.
vibrating vibrate vibrates vibration
4. Be careful when ___ inhaling _____ – try not to breathe too deeply.
inhaling inhales inhalation inhale
5. The sounds ____ rippled ____ through the air.
ripples rippling rips rippled
