Tips to Help Keep Your Pets Calm During 4th of July Fireworks

Jul 01, 2022

The Fourth of July is just around the corner. And with this summer holiday comes barbecues, pool parties, and the thing that some pets (and pet parents) dread: fireworks.

Did you know that more pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time of year? It is thanks, in part, to fireworks.

Some pets may have varied responses to the loud explosions; some hide, some tremble, some pets, unfortunately, run away in fear and end up getting lost.

When it comes to our raucous Fourth of July celebrations, you may not be able to stop your cat from getting scared and stressed outright, there are some things you can do to help them cope with the stress.

1. Make a plan for your pet.

If you've had your pet for a number of years and know how your pet reacts to fireworks, you've likely already got a game plan in place. But if you don't, there are a few steps you can take to make one.

Consider how your pet reacts to the fireworks. If your pet has a history of anxiety, stress, and fearful responses, consult with a vet prior to the weekend for medication to help them relax.

Read below for further steps in soothing your stressed pets.

2. Ensure your pet's ID and microchips are up-to-date.

To keep your pets as safe as possible, keep them in a room where they can't dart out any doors or windows if they get scared by a sudden firework. If you're hosting a party and going in and out during any BBQs.

In the event your cat does get outside, please make sure they have updated ID tags. And if your pet is microchipped, be sure the information on the chip is up to date with your most recent contact information.

Lost pet reports skyrocket around July 4-5, with startled pets running off and getting lost. Many of them end up at shelters

Clear identification tags and updated contact information can greatly increase the chance that they will be found and returned to you, if your pet does run away.

3. Make sure your cat has a safe place to hide.

Your cat may prefer to hide away during the fireworks; create an environment where they feel safe. Consider setting them up in a bedroom set up with their favorite bed, toys, and treats, and a place that offers them somewhere to hide and feel safer.

You can even provide your cat with a blanket you've used or a shirt you've worn as they may find your scent comforting if you can't be at home with them.

4. Play soothing music.

Don't blast the music to try and drown out the fireworks, but play some soothing classical or rhythmic music for your cat. It sounds silly, but some cats might find music comforting. There is even music designed specifically to soothe or entertain cats!

You can also turn on the TV or radio, or even try putting a fun "cat game" video on the TV.

5. Natural calming remedies

Some cats may respond to pheromone plug-ins or sprays, which are specially formulated to naturally soothe cats' anxieties by flooding their systems with pheromones that trigger a positive response, rather than the negative anxiety the loud booms may cause.

Beware of using essential oils as a calming scent - while they may be safe for humans, many essential oils can be toxic to cats.

All in all, your cat will be fine as sure as the firework storm will pass, but helping them feel more comfortable will go a long way. And, hey, not every cat is afraid of fireworks - but it's always nice to know that they have somewhere to go they can feel safe.