Why are cats afraid of the sound of a comb? - briefly
Cats are often startled by the high-pitched, unfamiliar sound of a comb being pulled, which can resemble the hiss of a predator or another threatening noise in their environment.
Why are cats afraid of the sound of a comb? - in detail
Cats are often startled or frightened by the sound of a comb due to their highly sensitive hearing and evolutionary instincts. The noise produced by dragging a comb’s teeth, particularly if it is made of metal or plastic, creates a high-pitched, grating sound that falls within the range of frequencies cats can detect. Their hearing is far more acute than that of humans, capable of picking up sounds up to 64,000 Hz, compared to the human range of 20,000 Hz. This heightened sensitivity makes them more susceptible to being disturbed by sharp or sudden noises. Additionally, cats are hardwired to be cautious of unfamiliar sounds, as their survival instincts drive them to avoid potential threats. The comb’s sound may resemble the hissing or scratching noises of predators or other animals, triggering a defensive or fearful response. Furthermore, the unpredictability of the sound, combined with its unusual nature, can make cats perceive it as a potential danger. This reaction is not necessarily universal among all cats, as individual temperament, past experiences, and environmental factors can influence their response. Some cats may become habituated to the sound over time, while others may remain consistently wary. Understanding this behavior highlights the importance of being mindful of the auditory environment when interacting with cats, as their sensory experiences differ significantly from our own.