If you know your cat becomes distressed at the loud noises and lights of fireworks, the best thing to do is to keep your cat inside after dark. Giving them their own ‘cat curfew’ means they’re less likely to stumble across a noisy fireworks display. They’ll soon get used to curling up on the sofa in the evening. When keeping your cat indoors, make sure they have:

• a litter tray
• food and water bowls

Keep all windows, doors and cat flaps closed to ensure they don’t escape. Cats can also squeeze into tight spaces, especially when they’re feeling frightened. Make sure any unsuitable areas are blocked off to keep them safe.

Indoor cats.

Does your cat like to hide when they are stressed? This is a usual behaviour for anxious cats. A space to retreat to is likely to make them feel happier. Try a cardboard box or a cat bed lined with blankets. Some cats like to get up high as it gives them a better vantage point. Cat towers are ideal for this, but you can recreate the same feeling with a cosy bed on top of a wardrobe or a box on top of a sturdy shelf.

Cats hiding.

You might notice that the flashes of light that come with fireworks can make your cat feel anxious, especially if there is a display close by. Cover windows for extra protection from noisy fireworks and sudden flashes. 

Background noise, like the radio or television, can help to reduce the impact of sudden sounds that come with fireworks displays. Some types of music, like classical music, can be particularly calming for cats. Try to avoid radio and TV programmes that have sudden loud noises, for example panel shows.

Do cats like music?

If you haven’t tried them before, plug-in diffusers such as FELIWAY® are great additions for households with anxious cats. You simply plug them in where your cat spends the majority of their time (your living room, for example) and the pheromones help to soothe your cat during stressful times. Try using it a couple of weeks before the fireworks season begins to see if it makes a difference. 

Pheromone therapy.

It can be difficult to know what to do about cats and fireworks, especially if your cat is usually confident! Carry on as you normally would, and your cat should soon know they’re in a safe place and hopefully feel more content.

You might be tempted to keep your cat in one room, away from the noise and chaos of fireworks. While well-intended, some cats can feel more stressed if confined to one room. Let them have full access to the areas of the house they would usually have access to, and they’ll be content in exploring their surroundings.

If your cat is particularly anxious around fireworks, you might want to avoid leaving them alone in the house. Knowing you’re around can help them to feel settled. If you do leave the house, make sure you set up a safe and comforting space for them to relax in while you’re gone.

Cat feeling stressed? Trying to pick them up or cuddle them might make them more fearful. Cats can also take a while to calm down, so giving them some space is a good idea. They’ll soon come to you when they’re ready. If your cat does seek your affection, it is fine to give them some attention. Let them guide you on how they feel.

A new toy, like a fishing rod toy or catnip mouse, can be a great distraction from the noise of fireworks. Get them something special, and they might focus on that instead.

Cats and play.

Cats that are spooked tend to flee. If you’ve forgotten to close a window, they’ll soon find it! Keeping your cat’s microchip details up to date with your current address and phone number will give you peace of mind that if they were to disappear, you’d have the opportunity of a happy reunion. 

Microchipping your cat.