Does Your Cat Have Its Own Music Taste: The Relationship Between Cats and Music

How many concerts have you performed for your cat so far? Hundred? Maybe thousands? What if we tell you they’re most likely not a fan, and you’re stressing them out. It’s because they dislike our music, but they might love cat music. Keep on reading for a few cat-friendly music suggestions.

Does Your Cat Have Its Own Music Taste: The Relationship Between Cats and Music
Cat with headphones

Have you ever played your favourite song around your cat, only to find them completely uninterested or even walking away? That’s because cats don’t experience music the way humans do. But that doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy it at all! It just has to be the right kind of music.

Cats and Music: What’s the Connection?

Unlike humans, who love all kinds of music from pop to classical, cats don’t react much to our tunes. That’s because their hearing is tuned to different sounds, like the noises they make when communicating, like purring or meowing.

Scientists have discovered that cats actually prefer music that’s made just for them. This special cat music includes sounds that match their natural vocal range and heart rate.

How Music Affects Cats

Playing cat-friendly music can help your cat feel calm and relaxed. Studies show that it reduces stress, especially in nerve-wracking places like the vet’s office, making medical check-ups easier for both cats and vets. 

Some cats even seem to enjoy it by showing signs of relaxation like slow blinking and purring.

What Makes Music Appealing to Cats?

Regular human music doesn’t mean much to cats, but the right kind of music has:

  • Higher frequencies – Cat music mimics the pitch of a cat’s meows and purrs.
  • Gentle tempos – It matches a cat’s resting heart rate.
  • Soft, familiar sounds – Many cat-friendly tracks include purring or suckling noises, which can remind cats of comfort and security.

Fun fact: Both younger and older cats tend to respond more to music than middle-aged cats. 

Do All Cats Like Music?

Just like people, cats have their own personalities and preferences. Some may love relaxing sounds, while others might prefer total silence. If your cat seems annoyed by the music or leaves the room, they might just not be a fan!

When to Play Music for Your Cat

If your cat enjoys music, you can use it to help them feel safe and comfortable.

  • During vet visits – Bringing a playlist with cat music to the vet can help ease anxiety.
  • While you’re away – Leaving soft cat music playing when you’re out can help your cat feel less lonely.
  • At home for relaxation – Some cats enjoy curling up for a nap with gentle music playing in the background.

Cat Music Suggestions

You could just type into YouTube “music for cats” and you’ll find 3+ hours long playlists. These are great for playing when you’re out of the house or just for daily background noise while cleaning, cooking or relaxing on the couch with your cat. 

But our favourite suggestion is Daviv Teie’s Music for Cats. The YouTube channel has 10+ videos, all unique and different from the other but enjoyable for both you and your cat. 

Final Thoughts

Your cat may not care for your favourite songs, but that doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy music. All you have to do is play tunes designed just for them! If you’re curious, try out some of the cat-specific music above and see their reaction. Who knows? You might just discover their new favourite playlist!