Can Cats Hear Dog Whistles? Vet-Approved Feline Hearing Range Explained
By Ed Malaker
Updated on
Click to Skip Ahead
Curiosity often arises among owners about their pets’ sensory abilities to see and hear. A common question that people often have is whether cats can hear dog whistles.
The short answer is that cats can hear dog whistles as well as dogs can. That said, read on to learn how well your cat can hear in general and how they are likely to react if you use a dog whistle around them.
How a Cat’s Ear Works
The external ear of a cat, known as the pinna, is remarkably mobile, and the cat can rotate their ears independently. This mobility aids in the precise localization of sounds, contributing to their keen hunting instincts.
The ear canal leads to the middle ear, housing the eardrum and three small bones (ossicles) responsible for transmitting vibrations to the inner ear. The inner ear consists of the cochlea, a spiral-shaped organ filled with fluid and lined with tiny hair cells. These hair cells turn sound vibrations into electrical signals that go to the brain. Cats possess an extraordinary number of these hair cells, contributing to their ability to detect subtle sounds and navigate their environment with great precision.
Feline Hearing Range
Unlike humans, who typically hear frequencies ranging from 20 to 20,000 Hertz, cats have a broader hearing range. On average, domestic cats can hear frequencies up to 64,000 Hertz, making them more capable of hearing higher-pitched sounds than their human counterparts 1.
Cats can also potentially produce ultrasonic vocalizations, typically inaudible to the human ear, as a form of communication 2. For example, mother cats may use ultrasonic sounds to communicate with their kittens.
What Are Dog Whistles?
Dog whistles emit ultrasonic frequencies beyond the range of human hearing, often in the range of 35,000 Hertz. However, the frequency of the whistle can vary significantly, and some are even adjustable. These whistles are popular among dog trainers and owners for their ability to convey commands to dogs without disturbing people close by, and dogs can often hear these whistles up to 400 yards away. The downside is that since we can’t hear them, we don’t know whether the sound that they are producing is too loud or even if they’re making a sound at all.
Are Cats Affected By Dog Whistles?
While cats can certainly hear a dog whistle, many owners report that their cats pay little attention to it, so it’s highly dependent on individual personality, and there is little research to determine why. It could simply be that some cats don’t associate it with something important, like prey. However, some owners have had success teaching their cats simple commands with it, like returning home when they hear the whistle.
Ensuring Feline Well-Being: Tips for Pet Owners
- Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior when using dog whistles or other high-pitched sounds. Look for signs of stress, discomfort, or heightened alertness.
- Designate quiet areas where your cat can retreat if they feel overwhelmed by the whistle.
- If you plan to use a dog whistle in a multi-pet household, introduce the sound gradually to allow your cat to get used to it.
- If you have concerns about the impact of certain sounds on your cat’s well-being, consult with your veterinarian.
- Associate the sound of the dog whistle with positive experiences. Reward your pet with treats, praise, or playtime immediately after using it.
- Limit the use of the dog whistle to specific training sessions or situations. Overusing the whistle may desensitize your pet or lead to stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dog Whistles Harmful to Cats?
Dog whistles are generally not harmful to cats. However, constant exposure to loud or high-pitched sounds can cause stress. Use dog whistles responsibly, and observe your cat’s reactions to ensure their well-being.
Are There Specific Dog Whistles for Cats?
While there are no specific dog whistles designed exclusively for cats, some devices emit ultrasonic frequencies that may be more interesting to felines. Trying a few brands can be helpful when trying to train your cat with a whistle.
Are There Alternatives to Dog Whistles for Training Cats?
Clicker training is a great alternative. For cat training in general, consider using positive reinforcement, treats, and interactive toys. Cats respond well to rewards and play as motivators. Consult with a professional cat trainer for personalized advice if you are having more problems than you can handle.
Summary
Cats are capable of hearing dog whistles as the frequency that they emit falls well within their hearing range. However, many owners report that their cat doesn’t pay much attention to it, so it may not make a good choice for training. Even if they don’t respond to it, it’s important to introduce it carefully to avoid stressing out the cat or causing physical harm before you use it on your dog. If you want to use a dog whistle to train your cat, trying a few brands can help you find one that outputs a frequency that your cat responds to.
Featured Image Credit: Andrew E Gardner, Shutterstock
