The 4th of July, Independence Day in the USA, is a big event, but how will your cat cope with all the excitement? While you might love the 4th of July celebrations, it’s likely that your cat will hate them.

The 4th of July signifies the celebration of American Independence Day, but many people just take the opportunity to have a good party and enjoy every cat’s pet hate – fireworks. A firework’s loud bang can terrify a cat. Think about it, if your cat is scared of the vacuum cleaner or tumble dryer it’s likely he’ll be petrified of a bomb exploding in the air.

The day after the 4th of July can be very busy for animal shelters as they are swarmed with cats that have run away from home in fear. If your cat is an indoor-outdoor cat, keep him inside during the 4th of July celebrations. Lock your cat door. If you have a SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap you can set the cat door to ‘in only’ by turning the manual lock so that the next time your cat comes in he won’t be able to get out again.

If you can bear to tear yourself away from the Independence Day fireworks you could stay at home to reassure your cat if he gets scared. Alternatively if you do decide to go out, make sure your home is as inviting and safe as possible. Consider leaving the television or radio on to drown out the noise of the fireworks. Cats like to hide when they are scared so make sure all nooks and crannies are available to them. Leave all the doors in your house open so that your cat can roam as he pleases.

Some people decide to have firework displays at home on the 4th of July. Cat owners should think carefully before hosting an Independence Day party. If you do decide to have a party at home, consider sending your cat to a boarding cattery for the night, ensuring that there are no 4th of July firework displays taking place in the area.

All cats should be kept indoors during the 4th of July even if they are bold and don’t appear to be scared of loud noises. Some people find it ‘funny’ to attack cats with fireworks. If your cat is indoors, they will be completely safe from such malicious acts.

With your cats safe and sound on the 4th of July, you will be able to concentrate on enjoying the Independence Day fireworks! Have a great 4th of July!