With November 5th fast approaching, it will soon be time to prepare your cat for the firework season.

 

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. 

  1. Set up a room exclusively for your pet. Include his favourite blanket or toy and a special treat.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Keeping a television or radio on will create familiar sounds and distractions for your pet. Keep the curtains closed.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.)
  7. 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 

  • Yawning and licking of lips or appearing agitated and restless
  • Destructive behaviour
  • Trying to dig or get under furniture and cushions
  • Wanting extra attention
  • 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

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