Cats have extremely keen hearing. They are able to hear sounds at frequencies that we humans cannot even perceive. This sensitivity helps them hunt and protect themselves from potential threats, but it also makes some of the sounds in our daily lives extremely annoying to them. In this article, we will list 5 sounds that cats don’t like and how to prevent them from feeling uncomfortable.
Interesting Facts About Cat Hearing
Before we talk about the sounds that bother cats, it’s interesting to understand a little more about how these animals’ hearing works. Cats can hear up to 65 Hz, while human hearing goes up to 20 Hz. In other words, cats can hear sounds much higher than we can! This ability is especially useful in the wild, as it allows them to detect small prey and even the movement of rodents underground. However, this sensitive hearing also makes some everyday noises more torturous for them. Take a look:
- Home appliances
Household appliances are part of our daily lives. For cats, some of them can be a constant source of stress. Vacuum cleaners, hair dryers, blenders and washing machines produce loud and often shrill sounds that are unpleasant for felines. In addition to the volume, the continuous sound and vibrations that some of these appliances emit can cause auditory discomfort and stress.
How to avoid: If possible, use these appliances in a different room or at times when the cat is out of the room.
2. Fireworks
Fireworks are a nightmare for most pets. These sounds are extremely loud, unpredictable, and loud, which can send your cat into a panic. The combination of sudden explosions and bright lights can also aggravate feline fear and anxiety. During festive seasons, such as New Year’s Eve, many cats tend to hide in safe places and try to get as far away from the sounds and lights as possible.
How to avoid: During fireworks celebrations, keep your cat indoors, preferably in a quiet environment with relaxing music to drown out the sound of fireworks. Close curtains and windows to help reduce the impact of the noise.
3. Thunder and storms
Storms, especially those accompanied by loud thunder, can also be a source of discomfort for cats. The sudden, loud sound of thunder can frighten even the bravest felines. In addition, the change in atmospheric pressure and the sound of rain hitting the windows can stress your pet out.
How to avoid it: When a storm is forecast, if possible, set up a safe and cozy space for your cat, with some toys and their favorite bed. Soft music or white noise can also help mask the sound of thunder.
4. Horns and sirens
Urban sounds such as car horns and sirens from ambulances and police cars are common but equally annoying to cats. The sudden and repetitive nature of these sounds can easily startle a feline, causing them to run away or hide.
How to avoid: Try to keep your windows closed to reduce outside noise. If you live in a busy urban area, consider using blackout curtains or soundproofing to help reduce noise.
5. Alarm sounds
Fire alarms, security alarms, and even alarm clocks can also be stressful. These sounds often combine high frequency with high intensity, causing great auditory discomfort. Additionally, the repetitive and insistent nature of the alarms can be especially frightening to cats.
How to avoid: Make sure alarms are working properly to avoid accidental triggering. If you need to test the alarm, make sure your cat is in a safe environment and away from the sound.
You need to know your pet and understand which sounds can be bothersome to the point of scaring them and, consequently, stressing them out. The best way to help your cat, if necessary, live with these noises, is to create a cozy and safe environment, with dens, tunnels, scratching posts and whatever else is possible to make the feline feel comfortable.