The four-legged furry creatures in houses have a special place in our hearts. They are a part of our lives, and they fill our lives will joy and happiness. Music on the other hand has always been an essential part of our lives. The origin of music might be unknown but there are recent research and studies, which indicate that music has effects on our furry friends.
In 2002, research was conducted where it was found that when dogs are stressed, music may help. The study was done in a dog shelter. Their responses were considered. Different dogs were exposed to different kinds of music like classical, pop, and heavy-metal music as well as conversation and silence. The result of the research was that classical music had a calming effect on dogs.
In 2017, a journal was published on “Music’s Effect on Dogs’ Heart Rates”. The goal of that project was to determine the effect of different types of music on a dog’s heart rate. In the test, six different dogs were taken as samples in their own homes. Each experiment was performed in a quiet room. The presence of the dog’s owner was essential along with the two scientists who were performing the tests. In the experiment, five different types of music were used. Using a stethoscope, the resting heart rate was measured before testing and again immediately following the test. The result was a statistically significant difference in heart rate. For rock and rap music there was an increase in heart rate and for jazz music, there was a decrease. With this experiment, they concluded that certain types of music could help calm dogs in potentially stressful situations, such as in the veterinary office or when traveling.
Samantha Bell, a cat behavior expert says that there is no specific way to determine if cats actually 'like' music. Still, studies have shown that certain types of music lower cats' stress like classical while certain types raise it like heavy metal.
An independent study with a university was conducted in 2015, where it was found that cats showed a significant preference for and interest in species-appropriate music. In 2019, research was conducted by Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine where they concluded that "cat-specific music may benefit cats by decreasing the stress levels and increasing the quality of care in veterinary clinical settings."
A way to discover if your cat enjoys music and how they respond to it is to play classical tracks as a cue to get them in the mood for an upcoming activity. For example, if one put on a bright and bouncy classical number when it's playtime or during bird viewing out the window. Later, turn on slow, gentle classical strains before settling down in the evening.
Multiple studies have been conducted on cats and dogs but on rabbits, birds, and fishes as well. The studies suggest a familiar result was calming and soothing music had a calming effect on them, especially in stressful situations. Our furry friends can hear the sounds of much higher and lower pitches along with vibrations. They determine the difference in music through them.
At Prism School of Music, we provide music classes to children from the age of 3, with flexible schedules and highly qualified faculty. The classes are well equipped with instruments with professional musicians. Young minds have a high potential and we focus on nurturing their creative pursuits.