Does Music Calm Dogs & Cats With Anxiety?

Answer: True

    dog music anxiety

Does your pet get stressed when you're not home? Or maybe thunderstorms and fireworks turn your calm pet into a ball of nerves? Good news! Music might be the secret weapon you didn’t know your pet needed

 

Does music affect your pet’s mood?

Just like people, pets respond to sound. Soft, calming music can lower stress levels in dogs and cats by slowing their heart rate and creating a peaceful environment. It’s why many shelters and veterinary clinics use music to soothe animals during stressful times.

Studies show that music—especially certain types—can help reduce barking in dogs and restlessness in cats. And pets that feel more relaxed are often easier to train, happier and healthier overall. Music isn’t just background noise, it actually changes how pets feel!

What type of music calms cats and dogs best?

Mozart is in. Death metal? Not so much. Not all music has the same effect for dogs and cats:

  • Dogs tend to relax to classical music, soft rock or reggae. Loud or fast-paced genres like heavy metal can make dogs more anxious. And, research shows they’re calmer when exposed to a mix of tunes rather than hearing the same song over and over.
  • Cats are a little more particular. While they may not react much to human music, studies show that cat-specific music, composed using feline vocal ranges and tempos, can really work. One study found cats were significantly more relaxed when exposed to music made just for them.

So, while your dog may dig Beethoven, your cat might prefer a tune that mimics purring or bird sounds.

Music for separation anxiety and stress

If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, playing music while you're away can help them feel less alone. The steady rhythm and gentle sounds can mask background noises like traffic or construction, which might otherwise make your dog jumpy.

Puppies, in particular, can benefit from music during crate training or quiet time. It helps signal calm and provides comfort when they’re adjusting to new surroundings.

Cats can also find relief from cat-specific tunes, which have been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation when they’re left alone.

Try It!

Want to give it a try? Start with pet-calming playlists on your favorite streaming service. There are even apps and YouTube channels designed specifically for pet relaxation. Keep the volume low and play music during stressful times like grooming or when you’re away from home.

Spot other signs your dog may be stressed, and learn how to relieve it. >>