Do cats purr only when in the presence of another cat or person? By Lea-Ann Germinder on January 1, 2000 Pet IQ A:Yes. Some behaviorists believe a cat’s purr may communicate submission. Kittens begin purring as early as two days old. Source: The Purina Encyclopedia of Cat Care, by Amy D. Shojai, Ballentine Books Share. Twitter Facebook Google+ Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email