Cats and Fireworks

With Christmas, New Year, and Australia Day celebrations approaching, you may be wondering what to do with your cat when the fireworks begin. If you have a cat or a new kitten that becomes uneasy, restless, or scared when the bangs and crashes light up the night sky, read on for our tips on how to cope with an unhappy cat.

Before the Fireworks

Begin by preparing your cat and your home in advance of the fireworks. Your cat is probably already micro-chipped, but if she is not, get this done; if she runs away and someone finds her lost and confused, they will be able to get her back to you.

The Night of the Fireworks

Secure doors, windows, and cat flaps for the night that you expect the fireworks so your cat can’t get out. Bring her litter tray indoors. The fireworks could cause her to bolt in a blind panic if she is outside, and this could lead her directly into the path of a car. When you know the noise is about to begin, close the windows tightly to keep the sounds out, draw the curtains, and put the TV on for background noise.

If Your Cat is Scared

If your cat tries to hide under furniture, a bed, chair or cupboard, then that’s fine! She might choose a hiding place to feel secure, so leave her alone and do not try to coax her out. If she is scared, do not try to pick her up or comfort her; fearful cats prefer to be left alone. Act and talk normally, and don’t make a fuss. She might pick up on your manner if you panic, which could make things much worse.

Feline Pheromone Diffusers

Cats rub their faces on objects to leave their pheromones, or scent, to mark their territory. These pheromones mark the place where your cat feels safe. Feline facial pheromone diffusers release synthetic copies of pheromones into the air and this helps to comfort cats and make them feel secure. You can buy diffusers that plug into an electric socket and they last for weeks.

After the Fireworks Have Stopped

Remember that your cat has much better hearing than you, so even if you think the noise has stopped, she might still be able to hear fireworks in the distance. Leave her alone until she is ready to come to you for cuddles. The next day, before you let your cat out, check your garden or yard for firework debris; they can be poisonous if your cat licks them.

Speak to Your Vet

If these things don’t help and your cat has a firework phobia, speak to your vet. Your vet can refer you to a clinical animal behaviourist who will advise you about managing your cat’s condition. If you have a new kitten or you know your cat gets upset, consider staying home with her when you know the fireworks are going to be at their peak. This way you can keep an eye on her. Do not tell her off, just give her lots of love and keep a close eye on her.