Felines and Fireworks - Learn how to keep your cats safe during July 4th festivities.
We often talk about dogs and fireworks, but cats can be just as frightened and disturbed by them. If we pay close attention, we may notice the difference in behavior.
In a 2010 study from NZ, dog owners reported significantly higher fear responses than cat owners, but the duration of these responses did not differ between species. Fear of fireworks frequently led dogs to exhibit active fear behaviors such as shivering and trembling, whereas cats were more likely to hide or try to escape. A significantly increased severity and duration of fear responses over time in dogs and cats were associated with owners who comforted them when they displayed fear.
Individual cats react to fireworks in a wide range of ways. One of my furballs, Lilly, trembles and hides under the couch, while Basil sits on the windowsill and doesn’t seem much disturbed at all.
Fear and stress behavior during fireworks.
Research on the effects of fireworks on cats is very limited, but I believe it is safe to assume that fear among cats is common and negatively affects their welfare. Surveys show that many cats exhibit varying levels of fear and stress during fireworks, and many are described by their owners as very or extremely scared.
Hiding, not eating, eliminating outside the box, overgrooming, or being unable to settle are all signs that your cat may be highly stressed by fireworks. Every cat reacts differently, and we should consider the effect the loud, abrupt noises have on our animals with the same care we give to humans. Some people enjoy fireworks, while others are habituated to them, meaning they don’t care much anymore. Others are terrified and desensitized to fireworks, and the loud noises cause them strong physical and emotional distress.
July 5th is often one of the busiest days for shelters and rescues to locate dogs and cats that have bolted from the house or leash-spooked by fireworks and disappeared.
Tips and tricks to keep you and your cats’ stress level down during fireworks:
During planning for our BBQ and party, here are some tips and tricks to keep your pocket panther safe at home during the festivities:
1. Make sure your cat is microchipped and that the information is up to date
2. IDs or tags on breakaway collars are another effective way to add a layer of safety in case your cat gets lost.
3. Make sure you have a clear photo of your cat in case it goes missing.
4. Keep your windows and doors closed. Make sure your screens are not torn and that your cat cannot escape.
5. If you have curtains and blinds, this will add an additional visual buffer.
6. Provide a safe hiding spot for your cat in your closet or in a room on the inside weeks in advance. This spot should be away from light and noise. Let your cat choose the safe spot and make it as comfortable as possible. For example, if your cat chooses to hide in your closet, add a food and water bowl and move the litter box closer to the closet.
7. Don’t force your cat to come out if she isn’t comfortable. This may cause additional stress and lead to injuries and panic escapes.
8. Consider the noise and your ability to play calming music or white noise during the major event. Even turning up the TV may serve as a buffer. Consider playing calming classical music to soothe your cat.
9. If you are stressed about the fireworks, remember that emotions travel. Your cat will pick up on your emotions.
10. Stress and anxiety often lead to a loss of appetite. Offer high-value food and treats during this stressful time.
11. If your cat is not handling the situation well, consider discussing event behavior medication with your veterinarian.
12. Some OTC calming supplements, such as Zylkene, can be very helpful. Start the loading phase early and see if it has any effect on your cat.
References:
Dale, A., Walker, J., Farnworth, M., Morrissey, S., & Waran, N. (2010). A survey of owners’ perceptions of fear of fireworks in a sample of dogs and cats in New Zealand. New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 58(6), 286–291. https://doi.org/10.1080/00480169.2010.69403
Van Herwijnen, I. R., Vinke, C. M., Arndt, S. S., & Roulaux, P. E. M. (2024). Firework aversion in cats and dogs as reported by Dutch animal owners. Veterinary and Animal Science, 26, 100402. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vas.2024.100402
Verbeek, E., Rehn, T., Lundqvist, K., Hartmann, E., Åsbjer, E., Loberg, J., & Lindsjö, J. (2025). Fireworks and Animals: A review of animal welfare and legislation. Swedish centre för animal welfare, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. https://doi.org/10.54612/a.1tie2tr9a5
Warnes, C., Brown, E., & Durston, T. (2022). The use of behaviourally-active medication in companion animals part 1. The Veterinary Nurse, 13(3), 124–132. https://doi.org/10.12968/vetn.2022.13.3.124 (Original work published April 2, 2022)