Introduction
Have you ever wondered if your cat actually enjoys listening to music? With their superior sense of hearing compared to humans, it’s clear that cats experience music differently than we do. However, determining if cats have an emotional response to music or truly like certain genres or songs remains more ambiguous. This article will provide an overview of cats’ auditory capabilities, their known reactions to music, the limited research on their musical preferences, and considerations for playing music for your feline companion.
While the question of whether cats actually like music may not have a definitive scientific answer, we can analyze behavioral observations and research clues to better understand how our furry friends may experience tunes. Since music impacts moods and environments for humans, it’s natural for cat owners to be curious if shared music listening can become quality bonding time with their pet. Through examining the available evidence, we can gain helpful insights on this fascinating topic to hopefully bring you and your cat closer together.
Cats’ Hearing Abilities
Cats have an exceptionally wide hearing range compared to humans. According to a 1985 study by Heffner published in Behavioral Neuroscience, the hearing range of cats for sounds of 70 dB SPL extends from 48 Hz to 85 kHz, giving cats one of the broadest hearing ranges among mammals.
In comparison, the average human hearing range is typically between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. This means cats can hear frequencies significantly higher than humans are capable of hearing.
A cat’s ears contain more than 30 muscles that control the pinna (outer ear). Cats can rotate their ears independently up to 180 degrees, allowing them to precisely locate the source of sounds. Their large movable ears give cats superior directional hearing abilities.
Cats’ Musical Preferences
Research suggests that cats tend to prefer certain types of music over others. According to Hill’s Pet, cats seem most receptive to classical music, likely due to the soothing melodies and tempos. Studies have also found cats respond well to music with frequencies similar to purring and suckling sounds, like new age music or music specifically composed for cats.
In contrast, cats tend to dislike pop music, rock music, and music with sudden loud noises or jarring shifts in volume or tempo. A 2015 study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science played music by Bach, Britney Spears, and various other artists for 47 domestic cats and analyzed their responses. The cats showed significantly more positive behaviors like purring, rubbing, and approaching the speaker when classical music or cat-specific music was played versus pop music.
There are several theories for why cats prefer certain musical sounds. The predictable rhythms and calming tones of classical music may be less startling to cats. Music designed for cats uses frequencies optimized for feline hearing ranges. Cats also seem to prefer music that mimics natural sounds like purring, which may relate to bonding and nursing behaviors from kittenhood. Ultimately, music that is harmonious, consistent, and free of jarring sounds creates a relaxing environment that most cats enjoy.
Behavioural Reactions to Music
When exposed to music, cats can have a range of behavioural reactions. Some cats relax and become calmer when listening to certain types of music. For example, a 2015 study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that when cats at a shelter were played classical music, they engaged in significantly less meowing and showed more resting behaviours (Purina, n.d.). The relaxing qualities of classical music seemed to have a soothing effect on the cats.
However, not all cats respond positively to music. Some cats may show signs of agitation or stress when music is played, such as flattening their ears back, hiding, or trying to leave the room. Loud, sudden, or unfamiliar music is most likely to elicit these negative reactions. Every cat has their own unique preferences and sensitivities.
Many cats have fairly neutral reactions to music, neither relaxing nor becoming agitated. They may briefly glance in the direction of the sound source when music starts playing, but then ignore it and go about their usual activities. Cats have a wide range of hearing frequencies, but music may register more as background noise unless it contains specific feline-friendly acoustic properties.
Effects of Music Therapy
Research shows that music therapy can have a calming effect on anxious or stressed cats, especially in veterinary settings. Slow tempo classical music played at a low volume has been found to reduce signs of anxiety like vocalization, panting, urination, and hiding in carriers. One study conducted at Colorado State University found that cats recovering from surgeries were less stressed and healed faster when exposed to music therapy.
In veterinary clinics, music is often played to help relax cats and reduce stress levels during procedures and recovery. Soothing music played at around 50-60 beats per minute can help lower heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Cats undergoing treatments like blood draws, dental cleanings, and x-rays have shown less fear behaviors and aggression when calming music is played in exam rooms and recovery areas. The effects are strongest when music is combined with medication and pheromones.
According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, music therapy should be considered a “calming modality” to incorporate into veterinary care for anxious cats. However, music preferences can vary between individual cats, so observations of the cat’s reactions are needed to determine effectiveness.
Owner Perspectives
Many cat owners have observed their pets responding to music in different ways. According to one anecdotal report, some cats appear soothed by classical music but annoyed by rock, pop or jazz. Other owners describe their cats being indifferent to most genres. There are accounts of cats reacting positively to piano, string instruments and choral music, while showing agitation or attempting to leave the room when certain electronic, percussive or heavily rhythmic styles are played.
Overall, observations indicate substantial variation between individual cats. While some have definite preferences, others seem largely unmoved by musical stimulation. Genre tastes do not necessarily align with those of their owners. Monitoring cats’ behavioral cues can help identify if particular music relaxes or stresses them. Owners seeking to enrich their pets’ environments through sound may need to experiment to find compositions that resonance positively.
Explanations
There are several theories as to why cats may enjoy certain types of music:
The frequency range of cat hearing is broader than humans, extending into high-pitched frequencies that humans cannot hear. Music composed specifically for cats, like cat piano music, targets this higher frequency range. Cats may be more receptive to music containing these ultrasonic notes (1).
Cats are known to be sensitive to sounds and noises. Classical music and other calmer genres may be less overwhelming or stressful for cats compared to pop, rock, or electronica. The tempo and instrumentation of classical music closely mimics feline vocalizations as well (2).
From a scientific perspective, studies have shown that music can reduce stress and anxiety in cats. The neural pathways responsible for processing music in the cat brain overlap with those involved in vocal communication, arousal, and positive emotions. This offers an explanation for why cats may find certain music soothing or rewarding (3).
Overall, the pleasant associations and biological responses cats have to cat-friendly music can lead them to perceive it positively and seek it out voluntarily. The specific musical elements that cats prefer still requires further research and observation.
Sources:
(1) https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/common-questions/do-cats-like-music
(2) https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/cats-dont-like-human-music-play-instead
(3) https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/behavior/cat-psychology/do-cats-like-music
Considerations for Playing Music
When playing music for cats, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Volume and Duration: Music should be played at a reasonable volume for cats’ sensitive hearing. It’s recommended to keep volumes under 50-60 decibels. Additionally, limit music sessions to 30-60 minutes so cats don’t get overstimulated. Take breaks and monitor cats for signs of stress.
Monitoring Reactions: Pay attention to cats’ body language and behavior when playing music. Look for signs of agitation like cowering, hiding, or dilated pupils. If a cat seems bothered, lower the volume or try a different genre. Every cat has unique preferences.
Music Recommendations: Research suggests cats may prefer music with frequencies optimized for their hearing range, like specialized cat music albums. The harp, piano, violin and flute are often recommended. Upbeat classical, easy listening, and nature sounds may also appeal to cats.
While individual tastes vary, following this advice can make for safer, more relaxing music sessions for feline listeners. It’s best to start softly and gauge cats’ reactions when trying a new music playlist.
Conclusion
In summary, cats have excellent hearing and can detect a wide range of sounds and frequencies that are inaudible to humans. Their musical preferences tend to lean towards classical music and music designed specifically for relaxation or stimulation. Many cats exhibit positive behavioral reactions when listening to music, while others show indifference. Music therapy can provide benefits for anxiety, illness recovery, and behavioral issues in cats. Most owners enjoy observing their cats respond to music and believe it enhances their bond and environment. While individual preferences vary, gentle, calming music tends to elicit the most favorable reactions in cats. More research is still needed to better understand cats’ physiological and psychological responses to music. But it appears music can be an enriching experience for many felines when applied judiciously.
References
[1] Coren, Stanley. “Do Cats Like Music?” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, LLC, 29 Oct. 2012, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/canine-corner/201210/do-cats-music.
[2] Vitale, Alessio. “Cats and Music: Do Cats Like Music?” The Happy Cat Site, 15 Sept. 2021, thehappycatsite.com/cats-and-music/.
[3] Bradshaw, John. Cat Sense: How the New Feline Science Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet. Basic Books, 2013.
[4] Snowdon, Charles T. “Auditory Perception and Communication.” The Welfare of Cats, Springer, Dordrecht, 2008, pp. 41–63.
[5] Shulan, Rachel. “Cats Really Do Like Listening to Music, Study Finds.” Smithsonian Magazine, Smithsonian Institution, 12 Apr. 2022, www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/cats-really-do-like-listening-to-music-study-finds-180979900/.