As the holidays approach, so do festive New Year’s Eve fireworks. While fireworks are a fun way for us to celebrate the beginning of a new year, these events can be particularly distressing for a cat scared of thunder, fireworks or other loud noises. Even the most composed felines might find these sudden noises unsettling. This guide offers insights on how to prepare your cat for fireworks, ensuring they remain calm and safe during these events.
Why is my cat scared of loud noises?
If you have a cat scared of fireworks, you often also have a cat scared of other unexpected noises, like thunder. Both thunder and fireworks are unpredictable, loud and startling for cats and humans alike. But while some cats seem to rest calmly throughout the crashes, others become fearful and hide.
The fear of loud noises can occur for several reasons:
Lack of exposure as a kitten:
Controlled exposure to the sounds and experiences of storms or fireworks during the kittenhood socialization window may reduce the fear of these sounds later in life, especially if the experiences are paired with positive rewards like delicious treats and attention.
Association with traumatic experience:
If your cat experienced something scary in association with a loud noise, they may associate fireworks with fear. For example, if your cat got out on the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve and was repeatedly frightened by fireworks, they may react fearfully in future years.
In some cases, you may not know exactly why your cat developed a fear of fireworks or other loud noises. This noise aversion could develop slowly over time or appear suddenly. It’s best to be prepared for the anxiety that may come with loud holiday celebrations.
How to recognize a cat scared of loud noises
Cats may react to loud noises due to their acute hearing and natural survival instincts. Common reactions include:
- hiding or seeking shelter
- excessive meowing or yowling
- pacing or restlessness
- inappropriate elimination
- overgrooming
Preparation is key!
Luckily, you have the advantage of knowing the fireworks are coming. This means you have time to prepare!
- Work on desensitization and counterconditioning. When it comes to how to prepare a cat for fireworks, desensitization and counterconditioning are key. For example, in the months leading up to New Year’s Eve, you can start playing fireworks sounds quietly in your home and reward your cat with treats when they’re calm. Gradually increase the volume over time and reward your cat for remaining calm. This may help to desensitize your cat to the sounds of fireworks while conditioning them to expect something positive associated with the noise.
- Create a sanctuary. Create a cozy haven where your cat can retreat and feel safe and secure from the commotion outdoors. Pick an area where your cat likes to hang out that will also block out the sights and sounds of fireworks. Try out different places, like a walk-in closet or a room with blackout curtains. Include a comfy pet bed and favorite toys, and make it extra awesome with playtime or treats.
- Explore calming supplements and aids. Natural supplements or pheromone-based solutions designed to lessen anxiety can work wonders for cats. While supplements may be helpful for cats with very mild symptoms, they are not likely to help cats with moderate to severe fireworks distress.
- Visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. If your cat is severely distressed by the noise of fireworks, seek guidance from your veterinarian. They can offer tailored strategies and, if needed, prescribe anti-anxiety medications.
Prevention of fear the day-of
Preparation in the time leading up to the holiday will set you up for success on the day of the event. However, you’re still going to need to support your cat when the fireworks begin. Follow these tips:
- Give supplements or medications early in the day. Start any calming supplements or anti-anxiety medications before the crashes and bangs begin. Starting early may help relax your cat and reduce their reactivity.
- Lead your cat to their sanctuary with tempting treats. With repetition, your cat will learn to seek out their happy place on their own.
- Mask the sounds from outside. Fill their space with calming music, turn on a fan and close all the windows and doors in the house to help block the booms. By creating a quiet and well-insulated (soundproof) space, the white noise from the fan or music can be very helpful for cats.
- Provide plenty of distraction. Tempt your cat with an interactive toy or puzzle toy to divert their attention.
- Let your guests know your cat is fearful of loud noises. Ask them to keep doors and windows closed, and to leave your cat undisturbed in their sanctuary space.
- Keep calm and carry on. While it’s only natural to want to soothe your cat when they’re distressed, excessive comfort may reward your cat’s behavior—or worse, validate their fears. Instead, offer gentle reassurance and continue with your routine as usual.
Now that you know how to calm a cat scared of loud noises, you can start planning. Browse our veterinarian-approved selection of calming supplements for cats here. >>
