Pet Lovers

[gizmogal]

Well, I'm being facetious, but it's been my experience that cats don't do anything unless they want to. Not one thing, no matter how much you hope or how nice you ask. Nothing, unless they want to. 

As for the purring, usually occurring when stroking or gently petting a cat or kitten, that's voluntary. Not all cats will purr, but those that do are generally indicating contentment.

Meowing is definitely voluntary and purposely communicative.  Lotsa luck figuring out what they're saying...

I truly love cats. 

[geezerette]

Both

[Bookplate]

Yes, both.  Usually from contentment, but sometimes from stress.  We had a cat that would sometimes purr in the vets' office and that was clearly from fear.

[catter70]

Cats purr for many reasons. They purr when stressed and when in pain. Also, when feeling good. It's soothing for them.I've got one next to me now purring, fully contented.

[JoyFilled Warrior]

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@catter70 wrote:

Cats purr for many reasons. They purr when stressed and when in pain. Also, when feeling good. It soothing for them.I've got one next to me now purring, fully contented.

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@catter70  awww... i can sense the "purring" & "contentment" thru your aura, & keyboard keys! 

[OKPrincess]

Having cats all my life, I say both.  I associate purring with contentment.

Now I will pay close attention to my boys 🐈🐈

[Tinkrbl44]

My Bogey sometimes purrs while he is eating and it doesn't seem to interfere with his eating or swallowing process. 

So, I also say both.

[kindred cats]

Of course, I'm a total softy when it comes to cats of all kinds.  I think cats purr for many reasons, but mostly to express contentment, happiness, love, neediness.  You name it.

I've never had a cat purr at the vet.  Maybe they're happy to see the doctor.