Music is a universal language that resonates with humans in cultures and ages. Evoke emotions, memories and even physical answers. But what about our feline friends? Cats like music, and if so, what kind of music do they prefer? This essay deepens the intriguing relationship between cats and music, exploring scientific studies and anecdotal evidence to shed light on this fascinating theme.

The nature of cats and sound

Cats have highly sensitive audition, capable of detecting frequencies that vary from 48 Hz to 85 kHz, far beyond the human range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This sharp sense of headphones is in the hunt and navigation of their surroundings. Given their sound sensitivity, it is logical that music could have an impact on them, whether positive or negative.

Scientific studies on cats and music

Recent scientific studies have tried to understand how cats respond to music. A remarkable study conducted by researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and published in the magazine Science of applied animal behavior In 2015 he explored this question. The researchers, led by Charles Snowdoncreated music specifically designed for cats. This “cat music” incorporated elements that are believed to be attractive to felines, such as snorking and the sound of suction, reminiscent of comforting and nutritious experiences.

The study tested the reactions of 47 domestic cats to human music and the specific music of cats. The results were intriguing: although cats showed little interest in human music, they responded positively to the music composed for them. The cats were more likely to approach the speaker, rub against him and even purr when the cat’s specific music was reproduced. This suggests that cats have musical preferences, but these preferences differ significantly from those of humans.

Types of music that attract cats

Given the findings of the study mentioned above, it seems that cats prefer music that adapts to their auditory and emotional sensibilities. The following characteristics seem important:

1. Family sounds: The music that incorporates family sounds for cats, such as snoring or the rhythm of their suction, tends to be more attractive. These sounds are associated with comfort and safety, creating a soothing effect.
2. Frequency range: Since cats can hear higher frequencies than humans, music that includes higher tones may be more attractive to them. The specific music for the cat used in the Snowdon study had higher frequencies and temples similar to those found in CAT’s vocalizations.
3. Tempo and rhythm: The tempo and the rhythm of music are also crucial. Cats seem to prefer rhythms that coincide with their natural snoring rate or heartbeat. This rhythmic familiarity can have a soothing effect on them.

Anecdotal evidence and experiences of cat owners

Beyond scientific studies, many cat owners have shared their observations and experiences regarding the reactions of their pets to music. Some report that their cats seem to enjoy classical music or soft instrumental pieces, often curling and relaxing when that music reproduces. Others point out that their cats seem to be indifferent or even agitated by certain types of music, particularly those with strong or discordant sounds.

Interestingly, some cat owners have discovered that their pets respond positively to specific genres, such as classical or even reggae music. The soothing and consistent rhythms of these genres can be more relaxing compared to the unpredictable and dynamic nature of rock or heavy metal music.

Applications and practical considerations

Understand that cats can have musical preferences opens practical applications for pet owners and veterinarians. To play specific music for the cat in shelters, veterinary clinics or at home can help reduce stress and anxiety in cats. For example, during a visit to the veterinarian, playing soothing music could make the experience less traumatic for the cat. Similarly, in households or shelters of several caps where stress levels can be high, music could serve as a tool to promote a quieter environment.

Here are some suggestions based on the characteristics that seem to attract cats:

Specific cat music

1. David Teie – Cat Music
   • David Teie, a cellist and composer, created a Album specifically for cats. His music incorporates sounds and rhythms that are designed to be attractive to felines. The album “Cat music“It is a great starting point, with clues like” Rusty’s Ballad “and” Katey’s Waltz. “

Classical music

2. Ludwig Van Beethoven – Sonata de Luz de Luna
3. Frédéric Chopin – Nocturnes
   • Chopin’s night They are known for their quiet and serene quality. Soft piano pieces can create a relaxing atmosphere for cats.

4. Johann Sebastian Bach – Air on rope G
   • This Bach’s foot It is gentle and relaxing, with a consistent and soothing rhythm that cats can appreciate.

Environmental music

5. Brian ENO – Ambient 1: Music for Airports
   • Brian Ango Environmental Music It is designed to create a soothing and peaceful environment. “Music for airports” has a soft and repetitive quality that can be relaxing for both humans and cats.

6. Steve Roach – Silence Structures
   • Steve Roach’s environmental album “Structures of silence“It has slow and relaxing sound landscapes that can help create a quiet environment for cats.

New era music

7. ENYA – Water brand
   • The music of Enya, particularly the album “Filigree“It is known for its relaxing and ethereal quality. Tracks like”Orinoco flow” and “Storms in Africa“It can be soothing for cats.
8. Deuter – Reiki Hands of Light
   • Deuter album “Reiki Hands de Luz“It is designed to promote relaxation and healing. Its soft melodies and soft instrumentation can be relaxing for cats.

Sounds of nature and white noise

9. Nature sounds to sleep
   • Albums or Reproduction lists with nature soundS, like bird waves, rain or ocean, can be relaxing for cats. These sounds are often associated with a peaceful environment.
10. White noise
    • Simple white noise, such as the sound of a soft fan or static, can also be soothing for some cats. There are many White noise tracks Available in transmission services.

Online resources and reproduction lists

11. Spotify – “Pet music”
    • Spotify offers a specifically selected playlist for pets, called “pet music.” It includes a variety of soothing clues designed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
12. YouTube – “Relaxing music for cats”
    • There are numerous channels and YouTube videos dedicated to relaxing cats. Searching for “relaxing music for cats” or “Petting music” will give many options.

Experimenting with different types of music can help you find what your cat enjoys the most. Observe your reactions to determine what sounds and rhythms have the most positive impact. Each cat is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. The objective is to create a peaceful and comforting environment that improves the well -being of your cat.

Conclusion

While cats do not perceive music in the same way as humans, they are able to respond to the sound so that they suggest that they can appreciate certain types of music. Scientific studies indicate that cats prefer the music that mimics the sounds and the rhythms that familiarize them, such as purr and more acute vocalizations. The anecdotal evidence of cat owners further supports the idea that music can influence the mood and behavior of a cat, although preferences can vary from one cat to another. As we continue to explore the complex internal life of our feline classmates, the relationship between cats and music remains a fascinating study area, offering information on how we can understand better and care for them.