How to Keep Your Cat Calm During Fireworks

Introduction

For us, fireworks can be a lovely part of an autumn evening. For our cats, the sudden bangs and flashes may feel very different. With Halloween, Bonfire Night and New Year celebrations bringing displays close to home, a little preparation can make these evenings easier.

At The Cat Butler, we know how much familiar surroundings and routines matter to cats. A comfortable retreat, a secure home and gentle background music can all form part of your plan. But can classical music really help?

Why Fireworks Can Unsettle Cats

Cats cannot understand why the sky is suddenly lighting up or when the next bang will come. Some carry on as usual, while others retreat, become restless or seem less interested in their dinner. Even a normally confident cat may need extra space on a noisy evening.

Think about your own cat’s habits before the season begins. Where do they choose to rest? Do they seek your company or prefer a quiet corner? Let those preferences guide your preparations.

Prepare a Comfortable Place to Retreat

Bring your cat inside before displays begin and secure windows, external doors and the cat flap. Have a litter tray, water and their usual food available. Close curtains to soften the flashes, and offer a familiar bed or a cardboard box with a favourite blanket.

Let your cat choose where to settle within their usual safe indoor space. Avoid pulling them out of hiding or insisting on cuddles. If they come to you for company, offer it calmly.

Can Classical Music Help?

Gentle music can provide a steady background sound, making the contrast between a quiet house and a sudden bang less stark. Some cats may find soft classical music soothing, but every cat responds differently. It is one small comfort to try alongside practical preparations, rather than a guaranteed answer to fireworks anxiety.

Choose something gentle and even in volume. A quiet piano piece may suit your cat better than a dramatic orchestral recording with crashing percussion. Try it on an ordinary evening first, while your cat is free to move away. Watch what they do: if they appear unsettled, turn it down or switch it off.

• Keep the volume low and comfortable; do not try to drown out fireworks.
• Start the music before the noisy part of the evening.
• Place the speaker away from your cat’s bed or hiding place.
• Avoid tracks, programmes or adverts with sudden loud sounds.

Classic FM’s Pet Classics

Classic FM’s Pet Classics is a programme created to help pets and their owners relax during fireworks season, with calming classical music and practical advice. It could be a useful starting point if you would like a gentle soundtrack for the evening.

Check Classic FM’s own page for the latest programme details and listening options. You can also explore its selection of calming classical pieces for pets. Keep listening sessions guided by your cat’s response, even when a playlist is designed with animals in mind.

When Your Cat Needs More Support

If your cat has struggled with fireworks before, speak to your vet ahead of the next display. They can discuss an individual plan, recommend suitable calming aids and, where appropriate, prescribe medication to help manage your cat’s anxiety. Arrange this well in advance so there is time to follow your vet’s advice and discuss whether further behavioural support would help. Ask for advice if your cat remains distressed, stops eating or shows a worrying change in behaviour. Never give calming medicines intended for people or another animal.

A plug-in pheromone diffuser such as FELIWAY may also help some cats feel more secure as part of their preparations. These products release synthetic feline pheromones and are different from prescription medicines. Start using the diffuser before fireworks season, following the product instructions, and ask your vet which option may suit your cat. Responses vary, so use it alongside a safe retreat and familiar routines.

You can find further practical guidance in Cats Protection’s advice on cats and fireworks. This guide is not a substitute for veterinary care.

A Little Help from The Cat Butler

If you will be away during fireworks season, tell your local Cat Butler how your cat usually reacts, where they like to hide and which music, if any, they are used to. Agree arrangements for the cat flap and indoor routine before you go.

Our cat care visits help maintain familiar care at home, but they do not provide continuous company through a display. If your cat needs someone with them throughout the evening, plan that additional support in advance. With thoughtful preparation and care that follows their pace, we can help make a noisy time of year feel more manageable.

For more on the benefits of familiar surroundings, read our guide to why cats are happier at home.

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.