Why Are Cats Scared of Thunder and Fireworks?

“Scaredy cat” is a metaphor coined by author Dorothy Parker from her short story, “The Waltz.” And all cats, with their senses intact, put truth to that phrase.

Why are cats so afraid of loud noises? The moment loud noises like thunder or fireworks erupt, cats tend to dart for their safety.

Our experts briefly unpack this question, sharing valuable information on the fear cats experience from loud noises, particularly thunderstorm phobia in cats and fireworks. We also share our insights into the signs of a scared cat. Furthermore, we’ll explore different methods to help calm cats during thunderstorms and fireworks.

Rest assured, after reading this, your feline friend will thank you for trying to understand and help them through what they may feel is their most significant moment of sheer terror.

Are Cats Afraid of Loud Noises?

Are cats afraid of fireworks and thunder? Are cats scared of loud noises? Undoubtedly, cats are often fearful of loud noises, even in the comfort of their own homes. Their stress heightens if they happen to be in an unfamiliar location.

Why Are Cats Scared of Thunder and Fireworks?

Why are cats scared of rain and thunder? It can be for multiple reasons.

Cats Sense Weather Changes

You may notice a cat scared of storms before bad weather happens. Like many other animals, cats can sense changes in atmospheric pressure from thunderstorms, sometimes causing a seemingly premature flight response.

Unpredictable Noises Also Often Trigger a Flight Response

And as to why are cats afraid of fireworks – they’re loud and unpredictable. Loud noises, while they’re happening, also often cause a flight response in cats, which addresses another common question: Why are cats afraid of vacuums? Although they might seem harmless, vacuums can also be loud and unpredictable.

Abusive Environments Cause Anxious Tendencies

Some cats’ previous environments might exacerbate their fear of loud noises. Let’s suppose they have had a history of violent abuse or confinement. In that case, they may be a cat afraid of thunder more than a cat that has always had a loving, safe environment.

Signs of a Scared Cat

Signs of fear in cats may include but are not limited to:

• Hiding
• Shaking
• Excessive grooming, where cats may lick their fur so much that it causes hair loss
• Panting
• Drooling
• Increased vocalizing
• Inappropriate defecation
• Inappropriate urination
• Destructive behavior
• Increased heart rate
• Decreased appetite

These behaviors are their way of expressing their fear and discomfort.

How to Calm a Cat During Thunderstorms and Fireworks

Here are a few tips on how to calm a cat during fireworks and thunderstorms, including a few natural remedies, behavioral training techniques, and more:

• Calming supplements: The Calming Care Cat Probiotic Anxiety Supplement from Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements can help promote calm behavior in cats displaying anxious behavior.
• Making their hiding spots: In case of any external stressors like stormy weather or any other bombastic noises, cats can benefit from multiple spaces throughout their home where they’d feel safe in case of bombarding noises. Depending on your home, you can create these comfort zones for them in the corners of your bedroom or office. A great idea is to create spots high off the ground, which makes cats feel extra safe. You can even try to whet their appetite by attracting your cat to these safe spots and leaving a few cat treats for them to enjoy.
• Pheromone products: Synthetic pheromone-based diffusers can easily calm cats in small spaces. However, these products may not work on your unique cat.
• Thunderstorm jackets: A cat thunder jacket, or a compression vest, can ease a cat’s anxiety in stressful situations.
• Playing with your cat: Depending on how loud the noises are, have a rotating variety of soft toys to distract your cat from the stressful noises. Playing with your cat may help them relieve stress while keeping them stimulated. It also helps you connect with them. If you’re calm around your scared cat, they’ll feel safer.
• You can download the myPurina app for more ideas on how to keep your cat stimulated and distracted from loud noises.
• Seeing a veterinary behaviorist: If your cat continues stressing and has ongoing side effects, like alopecia, it’s a good idea to see a veterinarian. A veterinarian may refer you and your cat to a veterinary behaviorist to help tackle the side effects of stress and identify any other possible root causes.

For more expert tips on cat behavior, explore our other understanding cats articles.