What music should you play for your pets? 🐶 🐱

Have you ever wondered which soundtrack best suits your dog or cat? According to an ABC article, music can be like a spa for your pets, especially if you choose the right tunes—and no, not just any current hit will do. Classical music, with its soft rhythms and calming melodies, is the queen for relaxing dogs and cats, helping them calm down when they're nervous or surrounded by noises like rockets. A study from the University of Belfast cited in the article found that pieces by Mozart or Beethoven make furry friends bark less and less stressed, turning your living room into a zen zone. So, if your dog seems like a whirlwind or your cat like an anxious ninja, you can try some classical piano and see how their behavior changes.

Your pets enjoying the music 🐩

But be careful, not all repertoire is suitable for their sensitive ears. The article warns that heavy metal or reggaeton at full volume can be a real nightmare for your pets. A University of Colorado study showed that dogs exposed to electric guitar riffs became more nervous than at an impromptu concert. Instead, opt for something instrumental and light with music that already exists for pets. These mix low frequencies and relaxing tempos, around 60-80 bpm. Cats also enjoy soft sounds, according to zoomusicology David Teie, who designs feline music that makes them purr with pleasure. In short, create your playlist with the name "For Paws and Whiskers," play classical or ambient music, turn down the volume, and your pets will thank you affectionately.

References:

• ABC. (2018, February 6). The music your pets should listen to. https://www.abc.es/sociedad/mascotas/abci-musica-deben-escuchar-mascotas-201802062004_noticia.html

• Harmat, L., Takács, J., & Bódizs, R. (2008). Music improves sleep quality in students and older adults. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 62(3), 327-335. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2648.2008.04681.x

• Snowdon, C. T., & Teie, D. (2010). Affective responses in tamarins elicited by species-specific music. Biology Letters, 6(3), 341-344. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2009.0988