Wondering how to keep your cat calm during fireworks season? We’ve got you covered with practical tips to keep your feline pal feeling safe and secure.
Cats have incredibly sharp hearing – they notice the faintest creak of the front door, the rustle of a treat bag, and even sense when you’re about to move from the sofa. It’s no surprise then that loud noises, especially continuous and unexpected ones like fireworks, can be unsettling for them. Fireworks season can be distressing for cats. With a few thoughtful preparations, you can help them feel more at ease.
Are cats scared of fireworks?
In short, yes – even the bravest cats can be startled by fireworks. Your usually playful, curious kitty might suddenly find a hiding spot at the sound of loud bangs. Whilst these are beautiful displays for us, they can be a distressing experience for our feline friends who thrive on routine and calming environments.
Understanding why fireworks can frighten cats is the first step in learning how to help them. Loud, unexpected noises and bright flashes can disrupt their usual sense of security. And can trigger a stress response (think cat equivalent of fight or flight). Read on to learn how to prepare your home and cat for New Year’s Eve, Bonfire Night, Diwali or other fireworks displays.
How to prepare for fireworks night.
If they’re an adventurous kitty who disappears for long stretches after dark, make sure to keep them inside ahead of planned fireworks. For outdoor cats who usually goes to the loo au naturale (in the bushes) then make sure you’ve got a litter tray set up for the evening somewhere familiar.
Set up a cosy spot for them – think pillow fort meets cardboard box. Essentially somewhere enclosed they can hide in. Somewhere to act as a distraction and somewhere to investigate before the fireworks start and a safespace to retreat to if it all gets to be too much.
Make sure you’ve got some The Cool Cat Club favourites in the cupboard for yummy dinner. Oh, and a few treats on hand wouldn’t go a miss. This is a good way to distract them from the noise and keep them occupied.
The first two things to do to prepare for fireworks?
- Ensure all the doors and windows are shut.
- Close any curtains or blinds to minimise bright flashes once the fireworks start.
What to do when cats are scared of fireworks. Tips to help keep your cat calm during fireworks
- If you can, the best thing to do is to stay home with your cat. Even if they seem aloof most of the time, having their human around is the biggest comfort of all.
- Cat parents need to hold it together and be strong for our furry friends. We know our cats are highly sensitive to our own emotions and take safety cues from their humans. If we keep calm then there’s a greater chance that our kitties will follow suit.
- Since fireworks happen after dark, keep your cats inside once the sun goes down. Sorry outdoor cats, you’ll have to pause your prowling for tonight.
- Add some background noise. Keep the radio or the TV on for a constant level of noise in the house. This should help reduce the contrast of the bangs (and also keep you entertained).
- This last one may be tricky, but avoid picking them up. Try not to overwhelm them with extra attention. Even though your intentions are good, this may likely have the opposite effect and stress them out further. If they want any comfort, they’ll seek you out.
Final thoughts
Fireworks can be unsettling for cats. Now you’ve read these few simple steps, you know the answer to “how to my cat calm during fireworks”. Now you can keep your feline friend feeling safe and secure. Preparing your home, keeping calm, and being there for them. All things that can go a long way toward reducing their stress during noisy celebrations.
Why not read our guide on how to ensure your cat gets the right level of nutrition here next.