Cats are known for their soothing purrs, a sound many people associate with happiness and comfort. But have you ever wondered why cats purr and what’s actually happening when they do?

including identifying as a cat and making cat sounds. Concerns highlight the teacher asking to be called 'Miss Purr' and engaging in bizarre actions like licking her hands during class.

But how, exactly, do cats produce their signature sound? A new study challenges the current consensus, finding that the purr-producing mechanism is strikingly similar to vocal fry, the technique ...