Difference between revisions of "Keep a Cat Calm During Fireworks"
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| − | + | Is your cat ''terrified'' on New Year's Eve or [[Throw a Fourth of July Party|Independence Day]] because of the fireworks? Even though you enjoy them and don't mind the sound, your cat does not understand what is causing the loud explosions and may be terrified. When you see your cat hiding under blankets, running around and whimpering, does your heart just break? Fortunately there are several things you can do to try to help your cat remain calm during fireworks. If fireworks are a common occurrence where you live, you may also want to take the time to help her gradually get used to the sound of them so that they don't scare her as much anymore. | |
[[Category:Cat Anxiety and Fears]] | [[Category:Cat Anxiety and Fears]] | ||
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#*If you typically keep a television on in your home, consider putting it on your regular programming at a slightly increased volume from what you normally use. This way the sound of the television will help drown out a bit of the fireworks while also helping her feel that everything is normal. | #*If you typically keep a television on in your home, consider putting it on your regular programming at a slightly increased volume from what you normally use. This way the sound of the television will help drown out a bit of the fireworks while also helping her feel that everything is normal. | ||
#Try an herbal remedy. There are several herbs that are tasty and appealing to cats and that have stress-reducing properties. Try one or more of these: | #Try an herbal remedy. There are several herbs that are tasty and appealing to cats and that have stress-reducing properties. Try one or more of these: | ||
| − | #*Catnip is a classic cat treat, which helps your cat feel less stressed by giving a slight feeling of drunkenness and calmness. Because it first works by stimulating the cat and then causes feelings of calm, you should give it to her fifteen minutes before the fireworks begin.<ref>www.petmd.com/cat/wellness/5-herbs-reduce-stress-your-cat</ref> Keep a plant of live catnip in your home for special occasions, or purchase a toy that is infused with cat nip. | + | #*Catnip is a classic cat treat, which helps your cat feel less stressed by giving a slight feeling of drunkenness and calmness. Because it first works by stimulating the cat and then causes feelings of calm, you should give it to her fifteen minutes before the fireworks begin.<ref name="rf1">www.petmd.com/cat/wellness/5-herbs-reduce-stress-your-cat</ref> Keep a plant of live catnip in your home for special occasions, or purchase a toy that is infused with cat nip. |
| − | #*Try valerian root, which has the same effect as catnip but usually results in a cat falling asleep. That should definitely calm her down!<ref | + | #*Try valerian root, which has the same effect as catnip but usually results in a cat falling asleep. That should definitely calm her down!<ref name="rf1" /> |
| − | #*Experiment with dried flowers. There are a few types that are soothing and safe for cats: chamomile, hops, and a combination sold under the name Bach Rescue Remedy. You can find all of these online or in some health food stores.<ref | + | #*Experiment with dried flowers. There are a few types that are soothing and safe for cats: chamomile, hops, and a combination sold under the name Bach Rescue Remedy. You can find all of these online or in some health food stores.<ref name="rf1" /> |
#Talk to your cat in calming words. Use a calm, relaxed voice, say things along the lines of "It's okay honey" or "[[Calm Down|Calm down]], it's ok." [[Pet a High Strung Cat|Stroke]] her gently. | #Talk to your cat in calming words. Use a calm, relaxed voice, say things along the lines of "It's okay honey" or "[[Calm Down|Calm down]], it's ok." [[Pet a High Strung Cat|Stroke]] her gently. | ||
#*It really doesn't matter what you say. If your cat is used to your voice and loves you, she will likely be comforted by anything you say. In fact, you could read the newspaper aloud or read your favorite novel and she wouldn't mind. It would help to reassure her that you are with her and not leaving her. | #*It really doesn't matter what you say. If your cat is used to your voice and loves you, she will likely be comforted by anything you say. In fact, you could read the newspaper aloud or read your favorite novel and she wouldn't mind. It would help to reassure her that you are with her and not leaving her. | ||
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#*Reduce the volume and try again if your cat seems fearful at any time during this process. | #*Reduce the volume and try again if your cat seems fearful at any time during this process. | ||
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== Tips == | == Tips == | ||
