How To Help Keep Cats Calm and Safe During Fireworks

Here are a few ways to help your cat feel more secure before the fireworks begin. 

Pick the quietest room in your home and make a comfy, cat-safe place for your cat to hang out during the fireworks. When it comes to cats and fireworks, having a quiet retreat can make a big difference. 

Many cats like hiding places, like caves or closets; if you can provide one of those in this quiet room, that might just become their new favorite hideout. 

Include favorite toys and comforts, perhaps a cherished treat and their litter box. 

If your cat is normally anxious, consider Feliway pheromone diffusers or sprays to help keep them relaxed. 

“Pheromones are a scent hormone that is emitted from the mother cat that has comforting qualities,” says Jeff Werber, DVM, veterinarian at Value Vet in Los Angeles. “Pheromones bring cats back to the sensation they experienced when they were with their mother.” 

To help block the sound of fireworks and distract your cats, play soft, soothing music—like classical or music composed specifically to keep cats calm (yes, this does exist!).  

This soothing background noise can do wonders for your kitty’s nerves.  

Flip to a nature channel. The sights and sounds could distract your cat enough to help them relax. 

Many cats are calmed by compression wear such as Thundershirt. This kind of swaddling helps give them a feeling of security. 

Cats are incredibly perceptive creatures, and they can be sensitive to your emotions. So even though you know this might be a stressful time for your kitty, try not to get too wound up about it. 

If you remain calm and relaxed as the fireworks explode, your cat will be more likely to do the same. 

Beyond helping your cat stay calm, these Fourth of July safety tips for cats can help keep them protected throughout the holiday festivities. 

Even if you have an adventure cat, now’s not the time to let them wander outdoors. Fireworks and party traffic can scare even confident cats into running away, especially with guests coming in and out of the house. 

Keep your cat securely indoors and lock any cat flaps or cat doors leading outside. (Silver lining? If you’re not a party animal, you can always use your cat as an excuse to stay in and cuddle.) 

Juuust in case you haven’t taken a photo of your cute cat recently (what, is your phone broken or something?), make sure you have up-to-date pics on hand in case your scared cat goes missing. 

Be sure the photos show any distinctive markings. You can share them with local shelters and rescues, print them on missing posters, or post them on social media to help others look for your kitty cat. 

If you haven’t already, get your cat both a collar with ID tag and a microchip. Holiday barbecues usually means a house full of guests who might not notice a curious cat trying to make a break for it. 

Without the collar, your pet cat looks like a feral cat. Without a microchip, your cat is completely without identification should they somehow lose their collar. 

If your cat is microchipped, make sure their account is still active with your microchip provider. 

Visitors might think they’re being sweet when they try to feed your cat party food scraps—but when it comes to common BBQ fare, like onions and garlic, they might actually be poisoning your pet. 

Make sure all guests know that the cats have been fed by you (even if they act like they haven’t eaten in days), and that they should not, under any circumstances, get more food or drink. 

By following the steps above, you’re sure to have a fabulous celebration—while knowing your cat is safe and comfortable as well. What more could you ask for? 

What can help keep my cat calm during fireworks? 

A quiet, safe space, calming scents like Feliway or Rescue Remedy, soothing music, a TV distraction, and staying calm yourself can all help. 

Why are cats scared of fireworks? 

Cats are sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and the general disruption that often comes with Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve celebrations, which can cause serious stress. 

Should I let my cat outside on the Fourth of July? 

No. Keep cats securely indoors because fireworks and party traffic can make even confident cats panic and run away. 

What should I do if guests want to feed my cat scraps? 

Tell guests not to feed your cat scraps. Common barbecue foods like onions and garlic can be harmful to cats.