Pet anxiety affects more pets than many owners might suspect. Whether it is separation anxiety, fear of thunderstorms, or stress during travel and vet visits, pets, especially dogs and cats, can experience high levels of stress responses. Over the past decade, pet behaviourists have been digging deeper into the effects of auditory stimulation on pets. It has been found that certain sounds can soothe animals, slow their breathing, reduce barking, and even improve pet sleep. An emerging trend in pet wellness, sound therapy offers a gentle, non-invasive approach to help your anxious pet become relaxed. The article sheds light into how exactly it works and why should it be put into practice.

Also Read: Pet Sleep Cycles: Importance And Tips To Improve Your Dog and Cat’s Sleep Quality

The Science Behind Sound And Pet Behaviour?

Animals, like humans, are deeply influenced by sound. Their sense of hearing is often more acute, especially in dogs and cats. Loud or unpredictable noises such as fireworks, vacuum cleaners, or thunderstorms can trigger stress, resulting in panting, pacing, trembling, or destructive behaviour. While low-frequency sounds, gentle rhythms, and certain tempos can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the fight or flight response in pets. Music and sound therapy are simple, affordable, and effective tools to help manage pet anxiety. While they may not replace behavioural training or veterinary care in severe cases, they can significantly enhance your pet’s quality of life.

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How Sound Therapy Can Calm Pets?

Not all music works when it comes to pet therapy. Some genres are more effective than others in easing anxiety. Here are some examples:

Soft Sounds

Surprisingly soft musical notes work particularly well with dogs. The consistent rhythm and upbeat, mellow tones appear to ease canine anxiety. On the other hand, high-pitched sounds, erratic beats may agitate rather than calm your pet.

Ambient Nature Sounds

Sounds of rainfall, ocean waves, rustling leaves, or bird calls can have a grounding effect on animals. These sounds mimic a natural environment and can make pets feel safer.

Specialised Pet Music

Several companies have developed music specifically designed for pets. These compositions use psychoacoustic principles tailored to animal hearing ranges and stress responses.

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Benefits Of Music And Sound Therapy For Pets

Integrating music or sound therapy into your pet’s routine can offer the following benefits:

Ease Separation Anxiety

Playing calming music while you are away may prevent destructive behaviours, bring anxiety relief and let them sit peacefully.

Calms During Storms Or Fireworks

Creating a peaceful environment with sound therapy to mask loud, scary noises can soothe your pet’s anxious behaviour.

Improves Sleep And Behaviour

Soothing sounds promote better rest and a sense of safety. This can make them sleep peacefully and for long hours.

Useful In Shelters And Veterinary Clinics

Many shelters now use music therapy to help reduce stress in animals waiting for adoption, leading to improved behaviour and higher adoption rates.

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Creating A Calming Environment With Sound Therapy

Whether calming a jittery pup during a thunderstorm or creating a peaceful nighttime routine for your anxious feline, the right sound therapy for dogs and cats can make a lot of difference. To make the most of music therapy, set up a comfortable, quiet space in your home where your pet can access water. Play music here regularly so your pet begins to associate it with relaxation. Keep the volume at normal levels. Play calming music around the same time each day, especially during known stress triggers or when fireworks are likely.

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Understanding Pet Preferences

Just like humans, pets have individual tastes. Some pets might respond better to a certain sound while others may prefer the tranquillity. Monitor their behaviour. If they appear more relaxed, slowing their breathing, lying down, wagging their tail gently, or even falling asleep, the music will likely have a positive effect. On the other hand, signs of distress or restlessness mean it is time to check for an underlying health problem.

Diet Alternatives For Anxious Pets

Wondering what to feed your dog or your feline friend when they are anxious? Besides trying other ways to make them become normal, here is what can make them happy and forget anxiety:

Pumpkin: It eases digestion and calms the tummy, being rich in fibre.

Blueberries: Antioxidant-rich snack, it supports brain and stress health.

Turkey: It contains tryptophan, which helps dogs relax and sleep better.

Sweet Potatoes: Comforting, slow-digesting carbs that stabilize the energy and mood of your furry buddy.

Chamomile Tea (cooled): Natural calming herb, it can reduce anxiety and stomach upset.

For Cats

Cooked Chicken: It is high-protein comfort food that cats find calming and satisfying.

Salmon: Omega-3-rich fish that can reduce inflammation and stress responses.

Pumpkin Puree: Gentle on the tummy, it eases digestion and supports calm behaviour.

Catnip (small amounts):  This natural herb can have a calming effect on cats.

Valerian Root (tiny dose): An herbal relaxant that can help soothe anxious cats.

(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile: Preeti Sharma

Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.