Independence Day is one of the most frightening days for most pets!
Cat hearing is even more acute than that of dogs. Imagine turning up the volume by 60% to get a feel for why your cat fears loud noises.
You can keep your cats safe and happy with 3 easy tips:
- Keep them inside. Even if your cats are indoor/outdoor cats, they will not be used to the intermittent booms of fireworks. More cats—and dogs—get lost on July 4th than any other day. They literally get scared out of their minds.
- Enjoy your fireworks somewhere else. Setting off loud noises at your own home can terrorize your pets. You’ll both have more fun if the big booms are well away from home.
- Make a Panic Room for your cat. Remember that Safe Room where you started out your kitty when he or she was introduced into your home? Unless that became a scary place to be for some reason, it can be a soothing place to be while fireworks happen, especially if you’re having a party.
Close the blinds to keep out the flashes of light.
Turn on some white noise, a mellow music playlist or movie.
Bring in your cat’s favorite toys and give them a good play session before you leave.
Leave their favorite food treat as you go.
Remember the litterbox!
Play again when you come home. They can’t hold play and fear in their minds at the same time, so this helps them get back to normal.
Remember, a Panic Room works well for thunderstorms too!
