Study on the Biometric Effects of Feline-Specific Calming Music

A clinical study, initiated on October 7, 2020, aimed to document the biometric effects of feline-specific calming music. Nine adult cats of various breeds and ages (2-12 years) from two breeders in Southern Australia participated. Their vital signs, including pulse, heart rate variability (HRV), and activity, were monitored using PetPace smart collars. The study hypothesized that Pet Acoustics feline calming music induces a physiologically and behaviorally calmer state in cats.

Pulse, or heart rate, measures heartbeats per minute and is a critical vital sign. It increases with physical exertion or fear. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a statistical analysis of the variations in time intervals between heartbeats, reflecting autonomic nervous system activity. High HRV indicates good fitness, while low HRV is associated with stress, pain, and disease. Activity score quantifies a pet's overall movement. Changes in activity levels can signal health issues or stress, with individual cats responding differently to stress (e.g., restlessness or hiding).

The study utilized PetPace smart collars and Pet Acoustics feline calming music. Each of the nine cats wore a collar for four days. Biometric data was collected for 12-24 hours without music. Subsequently, Pet Acoustics feline calming music, specifically designed for cats' comfort hearing range (60-80dB) and modified frequencies to avoid hypervigilant responses, was played continuously for another 12-24 hours via a portable Pet Tunes speaker. Data was collected every fifteen minutes and analyzed via a cloud-based system. Environmental factors such as workmen, thunderstorms, and travel were noted during the study period.

The study found that exposure to calming music resulted in a lower pulse rate, higher HRV, and lower activity levels. The overall median pulse rate was 3.3% lower with music (148 bpm) compared to without music (153 bpm), and the distribution of pulse readings was narrower. All cats exhibited a higher median HRV (4.6% higher with music, 9.48 vs. 9.06 without music), and the distribution of HRV readings was narrower. The overall median activity score was 8.2% lower when cats were exposed to the music (46.9).