Your July 4^th plans may include fun (and loud) activities, but this holiday can be stressful and potentially dangerous for cats. Fireworks can be terrifying, even if the cat is safely inside your house. For an outdoor cat, it can be life-threatening. Here are some safety tips:

·          For an indoor/outdoor cat, keep her inside, beginning one day before the holiday. Many people begin fireworks earlier than July 4^th. An outdoor cat is exposed to terrifying sounds that could cause her to hide and not respond to your calls. She may also panic and run right into an oncoming car. Even if the cat finds an indoor hiding place, the fireworks can traumatize her.

·          Prepare an indoor sanctuary room if you think she will become frightened by the outdoor noise. If your cat normally panics at the doorbell, phone, knocks on the door, etc., then she’ll benefit from a sanctuary room. Set up her food, a cozy pyramid-style bed for hiding, and a litter box. Put on some soft music. Use a Feliway Comfort Zone diffuser in the room. Spend time with her, engaging in a play session with an interactive toy.

·          If you’re having a party, make sure your cat is in her sanctuary room well in advance. It’s too easy for a frightened cat to slip out the door as guests come and go.

·          Don’t take it upon yourself to medicate your cat. Most cats do well if given a quiet, safe place. Tranquilizers can result in unexpected side effects. Only use tranquilizers if your veterinarian has prescribed them because he/she has determined that your cat will be too terrified otherwise.

·          Some people extend fireworks beyond July 4^th. Before letting the cat back outdoors, make sure she has current identification in case sudden noises frighten her and she ventures beyond her usual area.

For more information refer to the book Think Like a Cat.

© 2009 Cat Behavior Associates, LLC