11. Differences Between Domestic and Wild Feline Purrs
Not all felines purr in the same way. While domestic cats, cheetahs, and cougars can produce a true purr, many larger wild cats—such as lions and tigers—cannot (Smithsonian Magazine). The difference lies in the structure of their vocal cords and larynx. Wild cats that roar generally lack the ability to sustain the continuous, rhythmic purr familiar in household cats.