Fourth of July Pet Safety for Cats

The Fourth of July is a celebration of grand proportions. As such, it can be intimidating and scary for the little ones in our lives - children and pets. While I assume that parents out there know how to ease their children into the festivities and fireworks, what to do is not so obvious when it comes to pets. Household pets, especially cats, can easily get lost or injured on the Fourth of July. Here are some pet safety tips to help your keep your cat happy and healthy while you celebrate.

Fourth of July Cat Safety Tips: Contain your Cat

If you have an indoor cat and you are entertaining for the Fourth of July, contain your cat in a back bedroom, or better yet, a bathroom in a back bedroom. Put out some cat food, water, and move their litter box into the room. Post a sign on the door informing your guests that the room is off limits and why.

Fourth of July Cat Safety Tips: Advertise Your Cat's Presence

If you are having a small get together and you don't want to lock your cat up, post notes on the doors to your home to remind guests to close them. A friendly reminder can say "Indoor Cat: Please close doors or I will book it" or some such thing will help everyone remember. If you are not used to having an indoor only cat, closing doors is just not a habit.

Fourth of July Cat Safety Tips: Bring your Outdoor Cats Inside

If you have outdoor cats, consider bringing them in the house or the garage overnight for the Fourth of July to keep them safe. Fireworks are loud, and a scared cat can just bolt. Don't take the risk of your cat running into the street and getting injured, or getting lost. Set them up indoors in a safe place for the night.

Fourth of July Cat Safety Tips: Plan for your Cat's Company

If you are travelling for the Fourth of July, and are considering taking your cat with you, plan ahead. You will need food, water, a litter box, a leash if your cat will tolerate it, and a cat carrier. If your cat is not a good traveler, talk to your vet to see if there is anything that you can give the cat to help it stay calm.

Fourth of July Cat Safety Tips: Check with Neighbors and Friends in Advance

Since the Fourth of July is a busy day for everyone, plan ahead if you will be out of town. Have a friend or neighbor take care of your cat while you are away. Leave instructions for feeding, along with the phone number of your vet. Leave your cat carrier out in case of emergency.

These tips should see your cat through the Fourth of July holiday, which means that you can stay sane and have fun too!