Music can be like a balm to our stress and anxiety. Think of the calm spa music you hear during a massage. But music can also hype us up—just ask someone at a dance club or football stadium! Like us, your young cat can be impacted by music.
What is cat-specific music?
Interestingly, cats may actually respond best to music that’s made with cats in mind! Cat-specific music is music that utilizes frequencies and tempos used in normal cat communication. A 2019 study1 found that cats listening to cat-specific music had lower stress scores during physical examinations compared to cats examined in silence or with classical music playing. Cats have also been shown to interact positively (approaching, rubbing against) with speakers that are playing cat-specific music more than speakers playing music intended for humans. This cat music is sometimes played in animal shelters, boarding facilities and veterinary clinics to help cats relax.
Cat-specific music may also be something you can use at home to help your anxious cat relax. At the very least, it can serve as an interesting form of auditory enrichment for your kitten!
What about other genres of music?
Aside from cat-specific music, cats may prefer classical music compared to pop or hard rock. A 2015 study2 looking at cats under anesthesia found that cats who were listening to classical music while anesthetized had a lower respiratory rate and less pupil dilation when compared to anesthetized cats listening to pop music or heavy metal. Keep in mind that some studies have shown no difference in anxiety in cats listening to classical music compared to cats in silent rooms. More studies are needed to determine if cats have a true preference in terms of musical genres.
Looking for other ways to relieve your young cat’s anxiety? Browse our selection of anxiety support medications.
