Fireworks are always a good show for us human beings, but cats and barrels on December 31st are not a possible match. Dogs and cats are terrified of fireworks and the loud noise they produce, above all because on New Year’s Eve they all concentrate at the same time and last a long time.
Ecco how to protect cats from New Year’s barrels (ma the advice is also valid for the dog!).
New Year’s cats and barrels: why are they scary?
Animals have more developed hearing than humans, especially cats, so the noise is amplified and is, therefore, perceived as a danger.
The reaction of a frightened cat, as we know, is unpredictable and in the most feasible of hypotheses it could run away to save itself and get lost.
In this case it is very useful for the animal to have a microchip and to avoid the worst it is good keep the cat in a familiar closed placeso that he can face the stressful moment in the calmest and most serene way possible.
How to protect cats from New Year’s barrels? Regular!
If closing the windows weren’t enough to keep the combination of New Year’s cats and barrels alive and to muffle the noise, then go to plan B: get him used to the noise.
1. Try video
There is a not very simple but effective method to do it, which is to make him listen to the typical sounds of fireworks through videos. This way he will familiarize himself with that kind of noise and it will be easier for him to deal with New Year’s Eve and the festivities.
Put the video in the background for the first time, and then day after day increase the volume gradually. In the meantime, carry on doing whatever you are doing, indifferently, regardless of the noise.
Cats absorb the emotions of their owners, so if they feel calm despite the noise of the barrels, they will understand that there is no danger.
2. A safe corner and natural tranquilizers
If you celebrate at home, make sure your cat is safe. Leave him a corner in the house that is quiet and where he can take refuge in the moment of barrels and also use Bach Flowers. This homeopathic remedy is very useful for calming the animal down and preventing it from panicking.
Don’t do it, however, without having first consulted the vetwhich in addition to advising you which mixture of flowers to use for the specific case, will also be able to indicate you the right dose to administer.
3. Cuddles, but not too many!
Last warning: if your cat is still terrified and tries to go out, do not force him to stay at home because the feeling of panic could get worse.
Rather try to reassure him with cuddles and caresses or leave him alone if you understand he doesn’t want to be touched.