Fireworks: how to keep your cat safe

If your cat finds fireworks stressful, you may notice some changes to their usual behaviour and temperament. Your cat’s body language is a good indicator of how they’re feeling and some common signs of stress to look out for include:  

• Enlarged pupils 
• Arched back 
• Crouching gait, low carriage of the tail and slow low movement 
• Hair standing on end 
• Hissing or low grumbling 
• Trying to appear smaller 
• Ears back and ‘freezing’ 

You may also find that your cat appears more alert than usual. They may run away from familiar sounds or people and be more likely to retreat and hide.  

It’s common for anxious cats to lose their appetite or have an upset stomach so you might find that your cat is less interested in food and treats than usual.  

1. Give your cat plenty of personal space. Allow them to hide if they wish and come out in their own time. Trying to comfort them or pulling them from their hiding place may cause more stress 
2. If your cat has access to an outdoor space, keep them in when it gets dark. For cats living outdoors, such as farm or stable cats, make sure they have spacious shelter. Shutting them in may cause more stress 
3. Make sure your cat has lots of hiding places around the house. That way they’ll have a choice of safe places to retreat to but if they choose to stay in the same room as you, reassure them as a familiar voice may be soothing for them 
4. Close your curtains to block out light flashes and play music or put the TV on to help mask the sound of fireworks 
5. Provide an indoor litter tray in a quiet location, close to places your cat can hide. Bear in mind, anxious cats often avoid toilet visits if they feel threatened