How to Keep Your Cat Calm on Bonfire Night

londoninnercitykit
Nov 3
3 min read

Bonfire Night might be a crackling good time for us humans - sparklers, fireworks, and cosy jumpers galore - but for our feline friends, it can feel more like a night of chaos. Sudden bangs, flashes, and unfamiliar smells can be frightening, especially for indoor cats used to the hum of the city rather than explosions overhead.

However there are steps you can take to recognise signs of stress in your cat, create a safe space and reassure them through sparkler season.

why cats find fireworks so stressful

Cats have incredibly sharp hearing - they can hear frequencies 3x higher than ours - which makes the unpredictable bangs and whistles of fireworks overwhelming. The flashes of light and vibrations can also trigger their natural “fight or flight” instinct. Even the most confident cats can become unsettled, so don’t be surprised if your normally bold companion suddenly heads for the nearest hiding spot.

Spotting the Signs of Stress

Every cat reacts differently, but common signs of stress include:

Hiding more than usual or refusing to come out
Flattened ears, wide eyes, or a twitching tail
Pacing, meowing, or growling
Refusing food or toileting outside the litter box

If you notice these behaviours, it’s a cue to help your cat feel secure rather than trying to coax them out - sometimes, a little secluded space is the best comfort.

How to Prepare Your Home

Creating a calm environment is the key to getting through Bonfire Night smoothly. Start preparing a few days in advance so your cat can settle into the changes.

Set Up a Safe Hiding Spot

Choose a quiet corner or an area your cat already favours, whether that be under the bed, in a wardrobe, or inside a sturdy cardboard box lined with a blanket. Add some of their favourite toys, blanket or a piece of your clothing for familiar scents. The goal is to give them somewhere cosy and secure to retreat to when the noise starts.

Close Windows or Blinds

This helps muffle the sound and block out sudden flashes of light. Make sure any cat flaps or open windows are securely closed to prevent escape attempts if they panic.

Add Gentle Background Noise

A softly playing radio, TV, or a relaxing playlist can help drown out the bangs outside. Choose something calm - classical music or low-volume chatter works well - and keep the volume consistent.

Use Calming Aids

Pheromone diffusers like Feliway can make a big difference. They release synthetic “happy” pheromones that mimic the scent markers cats use when they feel safe. Plug one in a few days before Bonfire Night in the room your cat spends the most time in.

A final word of reassurance

Don’t worry if your cat hides all evening, that’s completely normal. Resist the urge to fuss too much; instead, speak softly, keep the environment predictable, and let them come to you in their own time. By making their space safe and comforting, you’re telling them, “You’re home. You’re safe.”

With the right prep, Bonfire Night doesn’t have to be scary for your inner city kitty - just another cosy night in together while the world sparkles outside.

Written by Bex