you may not know this but cats actually purr also when they are in pain. it relaxes them. When a mamma cat goes into labor and gives birth they purr to help control the pain.
Yes, and a far as i know being an indoor and outdoor cat is is even more extraordinary. The thing that bewilders me is that she is not in pain. She purrs when i pet her and she today is walking better. Shes eating and drinking food just fine and still using her litter box. Yet, she still goes to the door and begs to go outside.
WOW! 26 years is a LONG time for a cat to live! I must remind you that as much as we love our pets, they do not live forever, no matter how hard we try, there inevitably comes a time when life for the pet just isn't fun anymore.
I would take her to your Vet asap for a correct diagnosis as this is just my own opinion..
good luck to you both, please come back and update us....sending some prayersâ„