With November 5th fast approaching, it will soon be time to prepare your cat for the firework season.
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Cats can get extremely stressed by the sights and sounds of fireworks. This can lead to anxiety and more acute symptoms including diarrhoea, loss of bladder control and a sudden urge to escape or hide.
As well as keeping your cat safely inside, there’s lots you can do to prepare your cat.
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Set up a room exclusively for your pet. Include his favourite blanket or toy and a special treat.
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Pheromones can help to soothe. Two weeks before the start of the firework season install a Feliway diffuser in your pet’s favourite room. Leave the diffuser on and remove approximately two weeks after November 5th. Alternatively you can use a Feliway spray applied directly to bedding.
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Homoeopathic remedies can be useful. For a fear of noise nux vom and phosphorous are useful. Bach Flower Remedies can also be used – Mimulus for the animal who dislikes loud noises or Rescue Remedy to calm. Consult your pharmacist or vet for advice.
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Keeping a television or radio on will create familiar sounds and distractions for your pet. Keep the curtains closed.
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Ensure that young children are aware of the dangers of fireworks, not only to themselves, but also to your pets. They might not realise that your cat doesn’t find a sparkler as fascinating as they do.
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Make sure that your cat is wearing a collar and identity tag. It is also recommended you get your pet microchipped – that way they can always be traced back to you. (Remember to keep your contact details up to date.)
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If your pet does get lost, do not panic. There are a number of people who you can contact – local pet charities, search organisations, local vets and pet shops. Having up-to-date photos of your pets will help to identify them, plus they can be used in flyers and posters.
Top Five Stress Signs
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Yawning and licking of lips or appearing agitated and restless
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Destructive behaviour
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Trying to dig or get under furniture and cushions
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Wanting extra attention
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Constant whining or miaowing
The Blue Cross has produced a free guide to help pets and owners through the firework season. Visit www.bluecross.org.uk or telephone: 01993 825500 for a copy.
Extracted from YOUR CAT magazine October 2006
Another article you may find helpful is Firework Fear