New Year’s Stress: How to Make it Easier for Your Cat
New Year’s Eve – a night full of celebrations and joy for us humans, can be a source of stress and anxiety for our four-legged friends. The loud fireworks and firecrackers are especially burdensome for cats, who are very sensitive to noise. Here are some tips on how you can calm your cat and make the transition into the new year as pleasant as possible for them.
1. Safety First: Keep Outdoor Cats Inside
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One of the most important measures to protect your cat is to keep them inside the house during New Year’s Eve. Outdoor cats may get frightened by the loud noises and lights, hide, or in the worst case, end up in a state of shock-like paralysis. Moreover, there is a risk of injury from carelessly thrown fireworks. Ensure that your cat has a calm, safe place in the house where they can retreat.
2. Create a Calm Environment
Close the windows and curtains to shield as much noise and flashes of light as possible. If available, lower the blinds. Of course, you cannot completely eliminate the noise of the fireworks, but you can at least dampen it. Playing calm music or turning on the television can help drown out external noises and create a soothing atmosphere.
3. Offering Hiding Places and Retreats
Cats often seek a safe hideout in stressful situations. Make sure that your cat has access to their favorite hiding spots, whether it’s under the bed, in a drawer, or in a special cave. A soft bed or a blanket can provide additional comfort.
4. Engagement and Distraction
Offer your cat toys or treats to distract them. Active engagement can help shift their focus away from the frightening noises.
5. Stay Calm
Cats are very sensitive and can sense when their owners are tense or nervous. Stay relaxed and carry on with your usual activities. This calmness will be transferred to your cat and signal to them that there is no reason to worry.
6. Bach Flower Remedies: No Proven Effect
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Bach flower remedies are often marketed as a gentle, natural way to relieve anxiety and stress in animals. However, scientific studies have not shown any effect beyond a placebo. If your cat suffers badly on New Year’s Eve, talk to your vet in good time instead. They can help you decide whether anti-anxiety medication or other measures make sense for your cat.
7. Calm Closeness Yes, Anxious Fussing No
If your cat seeks your company, it’s fine to be there for them: gentle petting and a calm voice can give them a sense of security. But avoid fussing over them anxiously and constantly talking to them in a worried tone. Your own tension can rub off on your cat and reinforce the impression that there is indeed a threat. So stay relaxed yourself and let your cat decide whether to retreat or come to you.
Conclusion
New Year’s Eve can be a challenging time for cats, but with a little preparation and care, you can help your furry friend survive the night safely and as stress-free as possible. By creating a soothing environment and attending to your cat’s needs, you ensure that your house tiger can also welcome the new year with calmness.
Frequently asked questions
How can I calm my cat on New Year’s Eve?
Create a calm environment by closing windows, curtains and blinds to muffle the noise and flashes of light. Quiet music or the TV can also help drown out the bangs. Make sure your cat can reach their favorite hiding places, and offer toys or treats as a distraction.
Should I keep my outdoor cat inside on New Year’s Eve?
Yes, definitely keep your cat indoors on New Year’s Eve. Outside, the bangs and lights can frighten them so much that they flee in panic or hide away, and carelessly thrown fireworks can injure them. It’s best to bring them in during the day, before the first fireworks go off.
Is it okay to comfort my cat when they’re scared?
Calm closeness is fine if your cat seeks it. But avoid fussing anxiously over them and constantly talking to them, as your own tension can rub off on them. Stay relaxed, go about your usual activities and let your cat decide whether to retreat or come to you.
What should I do if my cat is extremely scared on New Year’s Eve?
If your cat suffered badly in previous years, for example with panic, refusing food or hiding for days, talk to your vet in good time before New Year’s Eve. Together you can work out which calming measures make sense for your cat. Don’t give them any remedies on your own.
