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A Gene May Influence How Much Cats Purr and Meow
- On 08 June 2025, a team led by Kyoto University researcher Yume Okamoto discovered a gene associated with purring and vocal behaviors in a study involving 280 domestic cats in Japan.
- The gene's long-type variant arose during cat domestication and appeared only in domestic cats, while previous research showed pure-bred cats more frequently carry this gene than mixed-breed cats.
- Researchers examined the gene across 11 cat species and found that cats with the short-type androgen receptor gene, especially males, tend to purr and vocalize more toward humans.
- The researchers noted that purring serves as a form of vocal communication used to attract attention or assistance, playing a role in survival by facilitating interactions between both cats and humans.
- The findings may enhance our knowledge of how cats communicate vocally, such as through purring, and support stronger bonds between cats and their human companions.
55 Articles
55 Articles
Cats are able to see well in dim light
Editor’s note: Dr. Lee Pickett has retired, but Creators continues to distribute columns from her archive. This one is from 2022. Q: What can you tell me about feline vision? I’ve heard that cats see well in the dark, but I still think we should leave a nightlight on so our cats can find their way to water bowls and litter boxes in the dark. My partner disagrees. A: I’m with you; we’ve placed night lights in strategic locations for our pets, too…
A Japanese study of 280 cats found that a certain gene determines whether your cat will be "chatty" or quiet • Is it related to survival?
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Our little furry friends may have just revealed one of their secrets. Scientists believe they have discovered the gene that underlies purring in cats.
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