Purrfect Harmony: The Science Behind Pet Acoustics Feline Music

Introduction

For pet owners, the well-being of their furry companions is a top priority. We pamper them with the best food, ensure they have a cozy bed, and shower them with love. However, there's another element that can significantly impact our pets' lives, and it's not what you might expect: music. Specifically, pet acoustics feline science-based music, which has been biometrically proven to offer numerous benefits to our feline friends. In this blog, we'll delve into the fascinating world of feline music, exploring the science behind it and the positive effects it can have on our beloved cats.

Understanding Feline Music

Pet acoustics feline music is a specialized genre of music designed to cater to the unique auditory and emotional needs of cats. Composed and curated with the help of scientific research, this genre takes into account the natural behaviors and preferences of felines, creating a soundscape that resonates with their instincts and senses.

The Science Behind It

1. Frequency and Pitch: Cats are known for their sensitive hearing, which spans a wide range of frequencies. Feline music is carefully composed to incorporate frequencies and pitches that cats can hear and appreciate. It often includes sounds reminiscent of birds chirping, purring, or other natural noises that pique a cat's interest.

2. Biometric Research: The effectiveness of feline music isn't just a claim; it's been scientifically proven through biometric research. Studies have shown that cats respond positively to music designed specifically for them. This music has been found to reduce stress and anxiety in cats, making it a valuable tool for improving their overall well-being.

Benefits of Feline Music

1. Stress Reduction: Just like humans, cats can experience stress, which can manifest in various ways, from hiding to excessive grooming. Feline music can help lower stress levels by providing soothing, calming sounds that mimic nature, helping cats feel more relaxed and at ease.

2. Enhanced Sleep: Cats are known for their love of napping, and feline music can contribute to more restful sleep. The gentle, soothing tunes can create a peaceful environment, helping cats fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restorative slumber.

3. Enrichment: Feline music can serve as a form of environmental enrichment for indoor cats. By providing them with engaging and stimulating sounds, it can prevent boredom and promote mental and emotional well-being.

4. Easing Separation Anxiety: Cats can experience separation anxiety when their owners are away. Feline music can provide a comforting and reassuring presence, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and anxiety in their absence.

5. Improved Behavior: By reducing stress and anxiety, feline music can contribute to improved behavior in cats. It can be particularly helpful in multi-cat households, where conflicts or tension might arise.

Conclusion

Pet Acoustics feline science-based music, with its scientific foundation and proven benefits, is a valuable addition to the toolkit of cat owners seeking to enhance the well-being of their pets. Whether it's to reduce stress, improve sleep, provide enrichment, or ease separation anxiety, this unique genre of music offers a soothing and harmonious experience for our feline companions.

So, if you're a cat owner looking to provide your four-legged friend with a more tranquil and content life, consider incorporating feline music into their daily routine. Your cat might not be able to express their appreciation in words, but their relaxed demeanor and improved well-being will speak volumes.

Printed in International Animal Health Journal (volume 8, issue 2), published in 2021.

Feline behavioural stress is triggered by their acute sensitivity to sounds in the environment. Cats can hear from 40Hz to 85,000 Hz, which is more than three times higher than human hearing, at 20Hz-20,000Hz. To modify behavioural stress in cats, Janet Marlow, Founder of Pet Acoustics innovated science-based music designed for feline acute hearing.

The benefits of this calming music has been repeatable and observable since its use for cats starting in 1997. To further understand the calming effects of this music, a study was initiated to analyse the biometrics of cats while listening to the music. The three-month clinical study monitored nine adult cats measuring their pulse rates, HRV, and activity levels determining the effects of the music. Each cat's vital signs and behaviour patterns were continuously collected in real time wearing a PetPace smart collar. By having a deeper understanding of how feline-specific music diminishes stress in cats on a biometric level can further define its use for feline welfare.

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Purpose of Study

The clinical study began in October of 2020 with the purpose of documenting the biometric effects of feline-specific calming music. Two cat breeders volunteered their multiple cat homes in Southern Australia for the study. The nine adult cats monitored were different breeds, which included Abyssinian, American Shorthair Black Silver Classic Tabby, Domestic mixed, Russian Blue and Selkirk Rex Shorthair. Their ages ranged from two years to twelve years.

Each cat’s vital signs of their pulse, Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and activity were recorded using a PetPace smart collar for cats.

The purpose of this study is to support the hypothesis that Pet Acoustics feline calming music induces a physiological and behavioural calmer state in cats. By measuring the pulse, HRV and activity scores, we can show the physiological and behavioural responses to the music. The nine adult cats were male and female, neutered and not neutered, different breeds and different ages.

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Monitoring feline vitals (pulse, HRV and activity) while playing Pet Acoustics species-specific music.

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Data of Each Cat Tested

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Biometric Measures Tested

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Pulse

Pulse, or heart rate, is the measurement of the number of times a pet’s heart beats per minute. Heart rate is one of the most important vital signs caregivers can measure for your pet. When the heart rate is measured peripherally by palpating or sensing the pulse in a limb, it is called pulse. The job of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body, supplying oxygen to the cells. Your pet’s heart rate is controlled by a sophisticated mechanism that takes into account the oxygen demand from the cells and makes sure the heart is able to provide it. For example, when a dog runs, its muscles work hard and consume a lot of oxygen. Therefore, the heart must work faster to supply the demand. Fear is another condition that is associated with increased heart rate in pets. When a pet (or a human) is afraid, the body gets ready for a fight- or-flight situation and prepares for the anticipated increase in demand for oxygen.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a statistical analysis of the small variations in time intervals between heartbeats. The variations are innate and normal physiological phenomena. Studies have shown that changes in HRV are associated with a wide range of diseases as well as pain, stress, and obesity. HRV is recognised as a marker for autonomic nervous system activity. The autonomic (parasympathetic and sympathetic) nervous systems as well as hormonal factors provide the main input to the heart’s pacemaker, and the beat-to-beat interval variability is a reflection of the balance between these two. High HRV indicates a good fitness level and a healthy heart and nervous system. Low HRV is associated with stress, pain, heart disease and other pathologies.

Activity Score

Activity score is a calculated value that provides a quantitative representation of a pet's activity during the selected time range. It is based on summarising all the separate activity readings and producing a total value for the pet's overall activity. What is known is that monitoring and analysing activity patterns and levels can provide valuable medical insights. For example, a decline in activity levels may indicate the development of a disease-causing pain or weakness. Activity is also affected by stress levels, but this effect is more complex. Some cats respond to stress by being restless and vocal, while others respond by freezing and hiding. The study evaluated each cat’s activity levels.

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Materials and Methods

There were two catalysts used for the study: the PetPace smart collar and the Pet Acoustics feline calming music. Each of the nine adult cats wore the PetPace collar over a four-day period. Biometric data was collected by an array of sensors in the collar for twelve to twenty-four hours without the music playing. After this time period, the Pet Acoustics feline calming music was turned on for twelve to twenty-four hours in the area of the collared cat. The music was broadcast from a portable Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes speaker which is pre-loaded with the music on a micro SD card. The feline-specific music played continuously until it was turned off. During the listening session, the pulse rate, HRV and activity data was collected. The data occurred in real time and could be seen on a cloud- based analysis engine program.

The music is specific to the comfort hearing of cats which is within 60 to 80dB. Additionally, the music is modified by frequency content to stay within the frequency levels that do not trigger hypervigilant response. This proprietary process was innovated by Janet Marlow in 1997.

After the first cat’s testing was completed, the collar was removed and placed on the next cat. The same method was done with each of the other eight cats collecting the biometric data every fifteen minutes during the four-day period. Each cat was tested with half of the session with no music playing and then with the music playing.

When the music wasn’t playing, each cat heard and responded to the natural sounds of home life. During the three- month period, however, there were sounds of workmen and construction in the home and several intense thunderstorms. One cat travelled in a car in a crate. Within the two homes of the nine cats tested, there were multiple cats and a dog.

Music in the feline study was broadcast from a portable Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes Feline speaker.

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Results

The pulse rate and the activity were lower as well as the HRV being higher when the cats were exposed to the calming music.

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Pulse

The pulse rate was lower, and the distribution of results was narrower. The overall median pulse rate was 3.3% lower during times when the cats were exposed to the music (148) compared to times when the cats were not exposed to the music (153). Four of nine cats had a lower median pulse rate during music time. Moreover, the distribution of pulse readings during the music time was lower (range 101-216, delta 115) compared to the non-music times (range 89-232, delta 143).

Each point on the graph indicates a specific pulse measurement made by the collar. By moving the cursor over the point, one can see the actual reading and the time it was made. The line is a simple moving average of the pulse readings.

If the pulse rate is too high (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia) for the dog or cat’s activity level, an alert will be generated to have your pet examined by a veterinarian.

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HRV

HRV is higher with music and the distribution of results is narrower. In this study, the overall median HRV was 4.6% higher during times when the cats were exposed to the music (9.48) compared to times when the cats were not exposed to the music (9.06). All cats had a higher median HRV during music time. The distribution of HRV readings during music time was lower (range 8.1-10.36, delta 2.26) compared to the no-music times (range 6.7-10.47, delta 3.77).

Each point on the graph is a statistical analysis of the small variations in time intervals between heartbeats. The variations are innate and normal physiological phenomena. Studies have shown that changes in HRV are associated with a wide range of diseases as well as pain, stress and obesity. High HRV indicates good fitness level and healthy heart and nervous system. Low HRV is associated with stress, pain, heart disease and other pathologies. There is no published reference range for HRV-VVTI. Based on preliminary analysis, we estimate that the following ranges apply for dogs:

>11.5 Normal
11.0-11.5 Suspicious
<11.0 Likely to indicate a health problem

The normal range for cats is not yet completely established. Values >9.5 are likely a deviation (decrease) from the typical values indicating a possible health problem or stress.

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Activity

Activity score is a calculated value that provides a quantitative representation of a pet's activity during the selected time range. It is based on summarising all the separate activity readings and producing a total value for the pet's overall activity. The overall median activity score was 8.2% lower during times when the cats were exposed to the music (46.9) compared to times when the cats were not exposed to the music (51.1). All nine cats had a lower activity score during music time compared to no-music times.

This chart divides the pet’s activity intensity into four levels – resting, low, medium and high activity. Low activity helps identify pain from orthopedic problems, like joint disease, or general health issues causing fatigue and lethargy. High activity may be associated with restlessness, agitation, alertness and discomfort. Monitoring activity is useful when pets are recovering from trauma, surgery or disease, to ensure that they get the rest they need and gradually resume normal activity patterns.

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Conclusions

The Pet Acoustics music that was tested in this study caused physiological and behavioural changes indicating a calmer state for cats. The activity levels of all the cats tested was lower. The overall pulse rate was lower and the distribution of the results was narrower. The HRV for all cats was higher with the music and the distribution of the results was narrower.

All these findings supported the hypothesis of a calming effect as a result of the cats listening to the music. The most significant finding was the HRV, which showed a considerable elevation from baseline, even more than what we see with the pulse. HRV was lower when the sympathetic tone (fight- or-flight mode) was higher, and vice versa. Therefore, a calm animal should have a higher HRV.

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Aggregate Data

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Benefits for Canine Welfare

The results of the Pet Acoustics study proved that feline- specific music modifies behaviours in cats. The stress scores were significantly lower in cats listening to the music as compared with no music. There were no significant differences when comparing the sex, age or breed of the cats, whether they were neutered or not and whether they were outdoor or indoor cats, all responded positively to the music.

For veterinarians, when listening to the Pet Acoustics feline calming music there is a reduction in stress, which allows the team to conduct better physical examinations and take more accurate vitals. Broadcasting this music in the waiting rooms of veterinary clinics helps to ease the anxiety of waiting cats.

Applications and Benefits

• Calms behaviours in cat shelters

• Relieves muscle tension during grooming sessions

• Masks agitating sounds of thunderstorm and firework

• Events

• Calms behaviour for breeding and birthing

• Reduces stress introducing a newly adopted cat

• Ideal for stress management for post-surgery healing

• Diminishes crate travel anxiety

• Lessens nocturnal activity

Pet Acoustics music helping to calm an anxious cat patient at the Litchfield Veterinary Clinic.

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Contributors

Janet Marlow

Founder and Sound Behaviorist, Pet Acoustics

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Humans waiting for the doctor to arrive in an exam room often have the experience of raised blood pressure levels. It’s common to get a higher number read, well, because we’re human and there is always a bit of stress going to the doctor. For our pets, who are acutely more sensitive to their environmental changes, traveling to the vet, going through the lobby and arriving in an exam room increases pulse rate, lowers HRV (heart rate variability), and triggers FAS (fear, anxiety and stress). Dogs can pace and pant and cats can cry out and cower in anxious behaviors.

Pet Acoustics has been focused on how to address this experience for our beloved pets and how to help veterinarians achieve better and easier exams. So we filmed the experience of “Rigby, an English Springer Spaniel in the moments between the vet tech evaluation and waiting for the veterinarian to come into the room for the exam. This is an important opportunity to be able to lower the stress level of the pet for better more relaxed exams for the pet and veterinarian alike. What we used is our newest multi-sensory product Pet Tunes Pro using soothing light and our biometrically proven music technology to lower stress in Rigby’s behavior. Here’s what happened!

As you can see, Rigby’s breathing and behavior became calm and ready for the vet exam. Pet Acoustics is a FearFree Preferred product.

Pet Acoustics biometric music is designed to benefit dogs and cats by providing music that is specifically tailored to their auditory and emotional needs. This type of music is created with the physiological and psychological characteristics of pets in mind. Here are some ways in which pet acoustics biometric music can be beneficial:

1. Stress Reduction: Pet Acoustics music is designed to have a calming effect on dogs and cats. It often incorporates soothing melodies, gentle rhythms, and frequencies that are known to reduce stress and anxiety in pets. This can be particularly helpful in situations that typically cause stress, such as veterinary visits or thunderstorms.

2. Auditory Enrichment: Dogs and cats have a heightened sense of hearing compared to humans. Pet Acoustics music takes into account their ability to hear a broader range of frequencies and may include sounds that are pleasing to them, enhancing their auditory environment and providing enrichment.

3. Distraction: In stressful situations, such as during a car ride or a vet visit, pet acoustics music can serve as a distraction. It can help divert a pet's attention away from anxiety-inducing stimuli and promote a more relaxed state of mind.

4. Promotes Relaxation: The music's soothing qualities can help pets relax, which is beneficial for their overall well-being. Reduced stress and anxiety can contribute to better health outcomes and behavior in pets.

5. Positive Associations: If consistently played in positive situations, pet acoustics music can create positive associations for pets. For example, if it's played during playtime or mealtime, pets may associate the music with enjoyable experiences.

6. Better Sleep: Pet Acoustics music can be used to create a calming bedtime routine for pets. The soothing sounds can help dogs and cats fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful sleep.

7. Behavioral Benefits: Some pets with behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety, may benefit from the calming effects of pet Acoustics music. It can be part of a broader approach to managing and addressing behavior problems.

Many pet owners and veterinarians have reported positive outcomes when using this type of music to help pets relax and reduce anxiety.

At Pet Acoustics®, we are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking advancement in our research into behavioral calmness for cats and dogs. Through rigorous biometric studies, we have successfully proven the effectiveness of our innovative approach to promoting a serene environment for our furry friends. These findings constitute a major breakthrough in understanding the emotional well-being of cats and dogs and signify a significant leap forward in veterinary science.
Using advanced biometric technology, our team has explored the impact of specific sound frequencies on the physiological responses of cats and dogs. By meticulously monitoring heart rate, respiration, and various other vital signs, we have collected comprehensive data that confirms the calming effects of our specially designed acoustic solutions.
The results of our biometric studies have astoundingly demonstrated a reduction in stress and anxiety levels among cats and dogs exposed to our scientifically formulated soundscapes. Through carefully engineered compositions, tailored specifically to the auditory sensitivities of our beloved companions, we have observed significant positive changes in behavioral patterns.

Ep. 161: Enhancing pet health with species-specific music that calms anxiety and improves behavior; with Janet Marlow. MINDY PETERSON, NCTM Music Educator & Podcast Host

My guest today is Janet Marlow, a fifth-generation musician and “sound behaviorist” who has done ground-breaking scientific research on how sound and music can affect anxiety and behavior in pets. Janet has used this research to create clinically proven calming music specific to various species. Her research has also led to a global brand, Pet Acoustics Inc. Pet Acoustics is known as a leader for contributing to animal welfare. And its award-winning products have helped thousands of pets and pet parents, veterinarians, and rescue shelters worldwide.

https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode161

Janet Marlow, CEO of Pet Acoustics and Rigby “Official Sound Tester”

Notes

We discuss:

• Why stress reduction and relaxation is so important for our pets’ overall health and well-bing.

• How the sound world of humans differs from the sound world of our pets.

• The unique considerations or features that are taken into account when creating music specifically for animals.

• Janet’s scientific studies are peer-reviewed and published in veterinary science publications.

• Pet Acoustics’ latest product.

• Janet’s latest piece, Equine Relax Trax, is designed specifically for horses. Horses are incredibly susceptible to stress, which leads to costly gastrointestinal problems. 90% of racetrack horses have ulcers, and 75% to 80% of performance horses do too.

• Janet’s books and products, including free

Connect/Other Resources

• Facebook: facebook.com/PetAcoustics

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theofficialpetacoustics/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/petacoustics

• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petacoustics

• Janet’s LinkedIn profile

• Pet Acoustics playlists avail on Spotify and all other streaming platforms.

• Janet Marlow Radio station on Spotify offers classical and jazz for humans.

• Janet’s books:

  • What Dogs Hear: Understanding Canine Hearing and Behavior From Puppy to Senior (2020)

  • Zen Dog, Music & Massage for a Stress-Free Pet (2008)

  • The Magic of Music for Pets (2007)

  • “Dogs and Cats Hear Much, Much More!” (2010)

• Pet Acoustics products available on Amazon and Pet Acoustics website

• FREE Home Pet Hearing Test available on Pet Acoustics website

• Janet’s blog

Mindy Peterson is a Podcast Host (Enhance Life with Music), Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM), and music advocate who has been a music educator since 1991.

Mindy is the Arts Advocacy Chair of the Minnesota Music Teachers Association (MMTA) and a member of Music Teachers National Association (MTNA).

Help your pet ride out firework season. Here are some steps you can take to create a safe space for your pet.

Choose an interior room: Select an interior room in your home where the sound of fireworks is muffled as much as possible. Ideally, this room should not have windows or have windows that can be covered with thick curtains or blankets to block out the light and reduce noise.

Prepare the room: Clear the room of any potential hazards or items that could cause injury or distress to your pet. Remove any sharp objects, toxic substances, or fragile items. Make sure the room is comfortable and familiar to your pet by placing their bed, blankets, toys, and any other comforting items in the space.

Create white noise: Play calming music, turn on a fan, or use a white noise machine to create a constant and soothing background noise. This can help mask the sound of fireworks and provide a more relaxing atmosphere for your pet.

Provide a safe hiding spot: Set up a cozy hiding spot within the safe room where your pet can retreat if they feel scared or overwhelmed. This can be a crate, a covered pet bed, or a designated area with blankets and cushions. Make sure it is a comfortable and secure space where your pet can feel protected.

Use pheromone products: Consider using pheromone products such as sprays, diffusers, or collars that release calming pheromones. These products can help create a sense of security and relaxation for your pet during stressful situations like fireworks.

Keep them occupied: Provide your pet with engaging toys or puzzle feeders filled with treats or food to help distract and entertain them. This can redirect their attention away from the fireworks and provide mental stimulation.

Stay with your pet: If possible, stay with your pet in the safe zone during the fireworks. Your presence can provide comfort and reassurance. Talk to them in a calm and soothing voice and engage in gentle petting if they are receptive to it.

Microchip and identification: Ensure that your pet has proper identification, such as a microchip and a collar with updated contact information. In case your pet becomes frightened and manages to escape, this will increase the chances of a safe return.

Gradually introduce your pet to the safe zone before the fireworks begin. Associate the space with positive experiences and rewards to help them form positive associations.

How your pet hears sound?

The ear is composed of several structures that work together to process sound. When sound waves enter the ear, they travel through the external ear canal and cause the eardrum (tympanic membrane) to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted through the middle ear to the inner ear.

The middle ear of a dog or cat contains three small bones called ossicles: the malleus, incus, and stapes. These bones amplify the vibrations received from the eardrum and transmit them to the inner ear. The inner ear contains the cochlea, which is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Sound waves can cause vibrations in the eardrum and subsequent movements of the middle ear bones. Excessive sound intensity, high and low frequencies or sudden loud noises can potentially cause discomfort, temporary hearing loss, or damage to the delicate structures of the ear in pets.

The brain processes the electrical signals received from the auditory nerve and interprets them as sound. This allows your pet to perceive and understand different sounds in their environment.

How we design sound for your pet’s ears.

Our Pet Acoustics® proprietary process innovated by Janet Marlow in 1997, called “species-specific music”, modifies sound waves within designed music to be the most comfortable for the mechanism of pet hearing. Frequencies and volume levels that trigger stress are modified according to each animal’s comfort hearing range.

The results of our Pet Acoustics® music maintains hearing health in animals, elicits behavioral balance and lessens stress in their living environment.

Pet Tunes Canine used at the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation (video)

Pet Tunes Pro is a multi-sensory speaker that calms dogs and cats with Pet Acoustics® science-based music, light colors, and nature sounds. Proven through biometric studies, Pet Acoustics@ proprietary sound design relieves pet stress for wellness in veterinary, kennel and home environments.

Dogs identify hues of blue-violet and cats hues of yellow-green. Light and colors help reduce stress levels in dogs and cats. Easy Touch tap on the speaker changes color choices. Enhances veterinary and kennel environments.

Pet Parents! Use Pet Tunes Pro to lessen anxiety in the veterinary exam room. Video shows Rigby go from anxiety to calm while seeing soothing colors and listening to the music.

Pet Parent Review -“Mitzi and I got your Pet Tunes Pro in the mail a few days ago. Mitzi and l have been listening to it almost continuously since. She absolutely loves it. The quality of the device and the music is exceptional."

Do dogs see colors?

Yes, dogs do see colors, but their color perception is different from that of humans. Dogs have fewer color receptors in their eyes than humans, which means they can only see two primary colors: blue-violet and yellow-green. This is a condition known as dichromatic vision. In contrast, humans have trichromatic vision, which means we can see the full spectrum of colors.

Because of their limited color vision, dogs see the world in shades of blue and yellow. Colors such as red, orange, and green appear as shades of yellow or gray to them. However, dogs have excellent visual acuity and can detect even subtle changes in movement and contrast, which is why they are such great hunters and trackers.

Do cats see colors?

Yes, cats do see colors.  Like dogs, cats also have dichromatic vision, which means they can only see two primary colors: blue and green. They do not have the ability to see reds or oranges, which appear as shades of gray or brown to them.

Despite their limited color vision, cats have excellent night vision and can see well in low light conditions. They also have a wider field of view than humans, with their eyes positioned more toward the sides of their head, giving them a 200-degree field of view compared to the human's 180-degree field of view. This wide field of view helps them to detect movement and avoid predators while hunting.

What is dichromatic vision in animals

Dichromatic vision is a type of color vision in animals that is characterized by the ability to perceive only two primary colors. In dichromatic vision, the eyes have two types of color receptors, also known as cones, that are sensitive to different wavelengths of light. The most common form of dichromatic vision in animals is the ability to see shades of blue and green.

This type of color vision is found in many animals, including dogs, cats, and most other mammals. Dichromatic vision is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that allows these animals to see important visual cues in their environment, such as the contrast between a predator and its surroundings or the ripeness of fruit.

In contrast, humans have trichromatic vision, which means we have three types of color receptors in our eyes, allowing us to see a full range of colors. This is due to a gene mutation that occurred in early primates, which gave us an advantage in finding ripe fruit and detecting subtle changes in skin color that can indicate emotion or illness in other people.

Do birds see colors?

Yes, most birds have excellent color vision and can see a wider range of colors than humans. Birds have four types of color receptors, or cones, in their eyes compared to the three types found in humans. This means that they can see ultraviolet light and a wider range of colors, including colors that are invisible to humans.

Birds use their color vision to find food, attract mates, and navigate their environment. For example, some species of birds can see the ultraviolet patterns on flowers that guide them to nectar. Other birds use their color vision to recognize the bright colors of other birds and to distinguish between different species.

In addition to their excellent color vision, many birds also have sharp visual acuity and depth perception, which helps them to accurately judge the distance and speed of objects while flying. The combination of these visual abilities allows birds to thrive in their natural environments and play important roles in pollination, seed dispersal, and insect control.

Do horses see colors?

Yes, horses see colors.  Like dogs and cats, horses have dichromatic vision, which means they can only see two primary colors: blue and green. They do not have the ability to see reds or oranges, which appear as shades of gray to them.

Despite their limited color vision, horses have excellent night vision and can see well in low light conditions. They also have a wider field of view than humans, with their eyes positioned on the sides of their head, giving them a 350-degree field of view compared to the human's 180-degree field of view. This wide field of view helps them to detect predators and avoid obstacles while running.

Horses also have a special ability to see motion better than humans, which is thought to be an adaptation for detecting predators in their natural environment. This ability allows them to detect even subtle movements in their environment, such as the flicker of a predator's tail or the movement of a fly on their skin.

Can you keep a light on to calm a dog?

Keeping a light on can be helpful in calming some dogs, especially those who are afraid of the dark or have separation anxiety. Dogs are social animals and often feel comforted by the presence of their human family or other dogs. Keeping a light on can help them feel less isolated and anxious, especially if they are left alone for long periods of time.

However, it is important to keep in mind that dogs are diurnal animals, meaning they are most active during the day and sleep at night. Keeping a bright light on in the room where your dog sleeps can disrupt their natural sleep patterns and may cause them to have difficulty sleeping or resting properly. To avoid this, it is recommended to use a low-level night light or a dimmer switch to create a calm and soothing environment for your dog without disturbing their sleep.

Is light useful for separation anxiety for a dog?

Light can be used as part of an overall strategy to help manage the condition. Separation anxiety is a common behavior disorder in dogs that can cause them to exhibit a range of destructive or anxious behaviors, such as barking, chewing, or trying to escape when left alone.

To help manage separation anxiety in dogs, it is important to create a calm and predictable environment for them. This can include providing them with a comfortable and secure place to sleep, such as a crate or a designated area of the house, and leaving familiar toys, blankets, or other items that have your scent on them.

In some cases, leaving a low-level light on in the room where your dog sleeps can also help reduce their anxiety and make them feel less isolated when you are not there. 

Can light be soothing to cats?

Yes, light can be soothing to cats, especially natural sunlight. Cats are crepuscular animals, which means they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours and often rest during the day. Exposure to sunlight during these times can help regulate their natural sleep-wake cycle and promote relaxation

Changing lights 

If you are considering using changing lights to entertain or stimulate your pet, it is important to monitor their behavior and response to the lights. If your cat seems to enjoy the changing lights and is not showing any signs of stress or discomfort, then it may be a harmless way to provide them with some visual stimulation. However, if your pet is showing signs of stress, such as hiding or becoming agitated, it may be best to discontinue the use of changing lights.

In general, colored soothing lights can be helpful in calming pets, including dogs and cats. Soft, muted colors such as blue, green, and purple can create a relaxing and calming atmosphere, especially when used in conjunction with other calming strategies such as music or aromatherapy.

Colored lights can be used in a variety of ways to create a calming environment for pets. For example, a soft blue or green light can be left on in a quiet room or sleeping area to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Similarly, a color-changing lamp or LED strip can be used to create a calming and visually stimulating environment for pets.

It is important to note, however, that some pets may be sensitive to bright or flashing lights, and exposure to these types of lights can cause overstimulation and stress. If you are using colored lights to calm your pet, it is important to monitor their behavior and response to the lights. If your pet seems to enjoy the lights and is not showing any signs of stress or discomfort, then it may be a harmless way to provide them with some visual stimulation. However, if your pet is showing signs of stress or agitation, it may be best to discontinue the use of colored lights.

Overall, colored soothing lights can be a helpful tool in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety in pets, but it is important to use them carefully and in conjunction with other calming strategies to ensure the best possible results.

Introducing an advancement in pet care!

PET TUNES PRO

A multisensory speaker to balance behaviors in dogs and cats

PET TUNES PRO - Veterinary, Kennel, Home

Pet Tunes Pro is a multi-sensory speaker that calms dogs and cats with Pet Acoustics® music, light, colors, and nature sounds. Proven through biometric studies, Pet Acoustics® proprietary sound design relieves pet stress for wellness in veterinary, kennel and home environments.

Pet Tunes Pro by Pet Acoustics- New!

Dogs identify hues of blue-violet and cats hues of yellow-green. Light colors can help reduce stress levels in dogs and cats. Easy Touch tap on the speaker changes color choices. Useful for veterinary and kennel settings.

Dogs hear twice as much as humans and cats three times more. Our Pet Tunes Pro's 360° omni directional speaker helps to balance canine and feline behaviors in their listening environment with volume capacity from small to large spaces.

PET TUNES PRO INCLUDES:

• Pet Acoustics® preloaded Micro TF Card with calming music for dogs and cats

• Pet Acoustics® Nature Calm TF Card for dogs and cats

• Pet Acoustics® White Noise TF Card

• Nature Sound Built-in Mode (8 Choices)

• Multicolor Touch Light Choices

• Home Pet Hearing Test

• USB Charging cord

• AUX IN cable

Bluetooth® compatible - plays any music from device

Multiple RGB color choices to soothe pet environments 

Digital LED alarm clock timer for scheduling prompts

Why the word PRO after Pet Tunes?

From Latin pro (“in favor of, on behalf of”) Pet Acoustics’ products are in favor of pet wellness and on behalf of providing the best products for your pet.

* Shop additional SD cards for dogs, puppy, cats, horses or birds available

Over the past 14 years, Pet Acoustics has set out to show on a biometric basis how our products affect the state of dogs, cats and horses. These studies prove that in their listening environment of Pet Acoustics species-specific music the physical response results in lower cortisol levels, lower pulse rate, higher heart rate variability (HRV) and calmer activity level. The following Pet Acoustics’ biometric study was published and peer reviewed in the International Animal Health Journal. For all of our Pet Acoustics biometric publications, please visit: https://www.researchgate.net/search.Search.html?query=pet+acoustics&type=publication