Cat owners are being urged to make small changes to their pet's routine and home environment before November, when Bonfire Night and Diwali fireworks can cause distress to felines.
Chris Maxted, director of pet gate company Cat-G8, said that making small changes now can make the disruption of firework season a little easier on your beloved kitty.
Prepare your cat for fireworks season
He explained: “If your cat normally has unrestricted access through a cat flap, think ahead about how that routine will change during the fireworks season. Cats should be safely indoors before dark on nights when fireworks are expected, with cat flaps secured and food, water and a litter tray available inside.”
It's also a good idea to prepare some areas of your home that feel safe for cats before they need them.
Create safe hiding places
Chris said: “Create a quieter part of the home where they can move between familiar spaces while staying away from external doors and busier areas, and introduce any access changes before fireworks begin.
“Cats may retreat under furniture or into enclosed spaces when frightened, so create a few hiding places several weeks beforehand and let them discover them naturally.”
A cardboard box, carrier or accessible spots underneath furniture can all provide frightened cats with some comfort.
Adjust your cat's nighttime routine
If you have a cat that spends a lot of time outside, consider getting them more used to being in at night before November comes.
Chris said: “Make sure they know where their litter tray, food, water and resting places are, giving them time to get used to spending longer periods indoors before the fireworks season begins.”
It's not just the cat's routine that needs to change - homeowners should also think about their nighttime routine. If you have windows, external doors or cat flaps that are often left open, make sure you are used to locking them at night so that your cat doesn't bolt out in a panic.
