Why do cats make purring sounds from their throats?

Purring sounds from a cat's throat can be divided into two main categories: physiological and pathological causes.

Physiological causes:

Comfort and relaxation: Some cats are天生 capable of producing purring sounds due to the structure of their respiratory system. If a cat consistently makes these sounds, it is generally considered a normal occurrence and does not require additional treatment. Purring often occurs when the cat is in a comfortable, satisfied, or happy state, such as when being petted, sleeping near the owner, or eating.
Soothing young cats: If a mother cat purrs after giving birth to kittens, it is likely to comfort and reassure her young. In this case, it's advisable to feed the mother cat high-quality food to help her recover her strength and resume milk production.

Pathological causes:

Respiratory infections: If a cat starts to make purring sounds after showing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and rhinorrhea, it's likely due to a respiratory infection. In this case, the purring sound is produced to alleviate the cat's discomfort, similar to how a cat might howl in pain. It's essential to take the cat to a veterinarian for further examination and treatment promptly, rather than observing or administering human medication, to avoid delays and potential worsening of the condition.