Can Your Pet Have a Favorite Playlist? Science Says… Maybe!

If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog prefers classical over country or if your cat secretly enjoys spa music, you’re not alone. Pet owners have been experimenting with “pet playlists” for years — and now we actually have some legitimate science to back up the fun.

Researchers have found that music can influence how pets feel and behave, especially when it’s calm, steady, and played at a low volume. Some dogs relax more easily with classical music. Cats may respond better to music designed specifically for feline ears. And a few pets? They just like whatever their people like — as long as it’s not heavy metal, which can increase agitation in dogs.

So yes: a playlist for your pet isn’t just adorable. It might even help with stress, boredom, or the general uncertainty of “Why does the vacuum exist?”

Here’s a quick look at what the research shows — and some playlists you can try at home.

What the Science Says (in Normal-People Terms)

Studies have shown:

• Classical music can help dogs relax in shelters and vet clinics. (It’s what we play at Onalaska Animal Hospital!)
• Soft rock and reggae sometimes outperform classical for long listening stretches — who knew dogs love Bob Marley vibes?
• Species-specific music is especially promising for cats, using pitches and rhythms closer to how felines naturally vocalize.
• Lower volume = calmer pets. Loud surprises aren’t soothing for anyone.

In short, the right music may help soothe a nervous pet or keep them company when they’re home alone, during storms, or even after a big day at daycare.

Try These Pet-Approved Playlists

(A mix of research-based, highly rated, and just-plain-fun.)

1. “Relax My Dog – Calming Music for Dogs” (YouTube & Spotify)
One of the most well-known and highly rated dog-calming channels online. Long tracks, gentle tempos, millions of views, and thousands of happy pet-parent reviews. Great for separation anxiety or background calm.

2. “Classical Music for Dogs: Anxiety and Stress Relief” (Spotify)
Think soothing strings and slow piano. Studies show that classical music works well in kennel and clinic environments — so it may help at home, too.

3. “Reggae & Soft Rock for Dogs” (Spotify)
Yes, this is real, and yes, research backs it up. A mellow beat and relaxed rhythm can help reduce stress. If your dog starts swaying, that’s between you and them.

4. “Cat Music for Feline Relaxation” (Spotify)
Designed specifically for cats, using frequencies and tempos based on feline communication. Many cat owners swear their kitties visibly calm down within minutes.

5. “Music for Cats by David Teie” (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube)
Scientifically composed by a cellist who partnered with researchers to create truly species-specific feline music. Very highly rated in pet-behavior circles.

6. “Pet Calm: Stress & Separation Relief” (Spotify)
A softer, ambient-style playlist created for both dogs and cats. Easy background noise for naptime or a cozy evening.

7. “Doggy Daycare Playlist” (Spotify)
Lighthearted and upbeat — not for deep relaxation, but great for pets who like something gentle with a little personality.

Does It Actually Work?

Maybe! Pets are individuals, just like people. Some love mellow music, others ignore it, and a few will give you a look that clearly says, “Turn that off.”

The key is simply noticing how your pet responds:

• Are they settling down more quickly?
• Do they seem calmer during storms?
• Do they snooze a little deeper with music on?

If yes, you may have just found your pet’s new favorite playlist.

Because Every Pet Deserves Good Vibes

Music is never a substitute for enrichment, training, vet care, or snuggles — but it can be a simple way to make your pet’s world a little more comforting.

If you try any of these playlists, let us know how it goes! Does your dog prefer Chopin or reggae? Does your cat demand species-specific sonatas only? We’d love to hear what your furry critic thinks.