As Fourth of July celebrations approach, Furry Friends is reminding Clark County cat owners that the holiday can be frightening and stressful for pets.
While fireworks are a tradition for many families, the loud, sudden noises and flashes of light can cause panic for cats, especially those who are already nervous or sensitive to sound.
National holidays “aren’t always cause for celebration by our cats,” wrote Nomi Berger, a volunteer writer for Furry Friends. “For them, a holiday like the Fourth of July means one thing: fireworks. Or simply put: NOISES, LOUD and SUDDEN noises.”
Furry Friends recommends keeping cats indoors on the day fireworks are expected, including cats that are usually allowed outside for short periods. Owners should be extra careful when opening and closing exterior doors, since frightened cats may try to slip out or bolt once fireworks begin.
Berger also encourages cat owners to make sure their pets are microchipped in case they escape.
Another recommendation is for owners to stay home with their cats, rather than leaving to watch fireworks. Even if a cat hides or does not want attention, Berger noted the animal is still better off with a familiar person nearby.
Pet owners can also reduce stress by closing windows and drawing curtains or blinds to muffle sounds and block flashes of light. Furry Friends suggests setting up a safe room with hiding spots, a litter box and water before fireworks begin. For especially fearful cats, owners may create a tunnel to the litter box or provide a covered, cave-style bed so the cat does not feel exposed.
A Feliway diffuser may also help. The product contains synthetic feline facial pheromones that are intended to have a calming effect.
Background noise can also make a difference. Berger recommends turning on the television or playing calming music, particularly classical music, at a comfortable volume. Owners should not try to drown out fireworks with loud music, since the whizzing and whistling sounds can also scare cats.
Some cats may respond well to distractions, such as playtime with a fishing pole-style toy or food-puzzle toys. Others may prefer to be left alone, while some may seek comfort from their owners.
“What’s important, however, is to respect your own kitty’s preference, thus allowing her to be comforted the way SHE wants to be comforted,” Berger wrote.
Furry Friends also warns cat owners not to give pets human anti-anxiety medication. Owners should instead consult a veterinarian, who may recommend an over-the-counter supplement or prescribe medication for especially fearful cats.
“But, whichever path you choose, follow it with kindness, patience and love,” Berger wrote. “Think back to the sounds that may have frightened YOU as a child, and you’ll know just how your purr-ecious pet feels.”
Furry Friends is a nonprofit, no-kill cat shelter and rescue serving Clark County and surrounding areas. Founded in 1999, the volunteer-run organization rescues and adopts out homeless, relinquished and abused cats, providing medical care, spay and neuter services, food, litter and foster placement while cats wait for permanent homes.
More information is available at furryfriendswa.org. The organization can also be reached at information@furryfriendswa.org or by leaving a message at 360-993-1097.
