It is not just from sudden booms from fireworks, but holidays in general tend to take a toll on cats. Cats derive a huge amount of security and comfort from things being predictable. Any holiday that changes the normal events of the day is harder for our feline friends.
Here are some things you can do to help your cat to adjust to holidays.
Create a cozy hideaway – Offer a secret place to hide that is comfortable and cozy. Maybe a familiar bed or blanket in a private cat only spot she can dash off to as things get going in your household. A clock wrapped in a blanket can offer a reassuring tick or vibration. Using feline pheromone spray on the blankets also can sometimes help.
Play some soft classical or species specific relaxing music – Research suggests that cats find music calming. Don’t make it loud to drown out the fireworks though!
Close the curtains – The flashes of light and the extra activity outside can be disturbing to cats.
Take a deep breath – Don’t react to the extra load of having more going on or to the sounds of fireworks. Your cat will take his cues from you about staying calm.
Consider veterinary help – If you know your cat reacts to fireworks or the extra activity from past experience, ask your veterinarian about temporary anxiety medications.
Offer something new – Try a brand new toy or scratch pad, distraction is…well distracting.
Keep the drinks away – Alcohol is sometimes a part of the 4th of July celebration, but keep those drinks out of paws reach. Alcohol can intoxicate your cat. It can quickly become a life threatening emergency such as respiratory failure.
Watch the door – With more outdoor activity and guests coming and going, do your best not to let your cat out. It may be especially difficult to coax her back inside at this time. Warn your guests to be on the lookout for your pet as they go in and out.
Make sure your cat is microchipped – In the unfortunate event your cat does get out and ends up at the local shelter they can scan and find your information immediately and get your friend back to you. Remember to keep your chip information updated also, otherwise it is just a number on a microchip. Without a microchip no one will have any easy way to identify your pet. Collars and tags can also be helpful, but can be snagged on a tree or branch and be lost. For cats, stretchy collars with a phone number printed on the collar are best.