Helping Your Cat Stay Calm on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night can be exciting for us — but for cats, it’s one of the most stressful times of the year. Loud bangs, bright lights, and strange smells can make even the calmest cats feel anxious or frightened.

As a trusted cat sitter in Bath, I know how important it is to prepare your feline friends for fireworks season. Here are some gentle, effective ways to help your cat feel calm and secure when the fireworks begin.

1. Keep Your Cat Indoors

Before the fireworks start, make sure your cat is safely inside. Close cat flaps, windows, and doors to prevent them from escaping in fear. Provide food, fresh water, and a clean litter tray indoors.

If your cat normally toilets outside:

• Start introducing an indoor litter tray 2–3 weeks before Bonfire Night.

• Place it in a quiet, low-traffic area, away from food and water.

• Use unscented litter and keep it clean so your cat gets used to it.

• For multi-cat households, aim for one tray per cat plus one extra.

• Reward your cat with gentle praise or treats to build positive associations.

2. Create a Safe Space Indoors

Set up a quiet retreat where your cat can feel secure — a spare room, cupboard, or even a wardrobe works perfectly. Add blankets, cushions, and a covered bed or box. You can lightly spray a Feliway pheromone spray on the blankets to help your cat relax.

This safe space gives your cat a calm hideaway to escape the noise and lights of fireworks.

3. Close Curtains & Windows

Reduce noise and flashing lights by keeping windows closed and curtains drawn. Turn on a warm indoor light to create a sense of calm and normality.

4. Use Soothing Sounds

Leave the TV or radio on low — gentle background noise helps mask fireworks and keeps your cat feeling more at ease.

5. Stick to Routine

Cats love consistency. Keep feeding, playtime, and cuddles at the usual times. A stable routine can help them feel safe, even when the outside world gets noisy.

6. Try Calming Products for Cats

If your cat gets especially anxious, there are safe, effective products that can help:

• Feliway diffusers or sprays – release calming pheromones; you can use the spray on bedding or blankets.

• Calming treats – look for ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, or valerian root, which naturally support relaxation.

• Calming “spot-on” treatments – applied to the back of the neck; release natural soothing ingredients such as valerian and lavender.

Important: Always patch test calming spot-ons a few days before Bonfire Night in case of sensitivity, and apply them several days before the fireworks begin.

If your cat has sensitive skin or you’re unsure, use Feliway sprays or plug-in diffusers instead — they’re gentle and widely tolerated.

7. Offer Comfort

Some cats may seek cuddles, while others prefer hiding. Let them decide what feels safest. Your calm energy will reassure them even if they’re out of sight.

Final Thoughts

Every cat reacts differently to fireworks, but a little preparation makes all the difference. By keeping your cat indoors, introducing a litter tray early, and creating a safe and calming environment, you can help them feel protected during Bonfire Night.

Wishing you and your furry friends a calm and cosy Bonfire Night — from Jolene at Cat Love Sitting.