Keep your cat safe and calm this new year’s eve

Got your outfit for that New Year’s Eve party planned? We’re ready to have fun and greet the New Year with fireworks and drinks in our hand but for our poor feline friends, it’s a stressful time for them.

As pet owners, it’s our job to make sure they’re out of harm’s way and New Year’s will be as pleasant for them as it is for us. Here are tips to make sure the cats are fine before the party even begins.

1. Give them a room of their own for the night.

It’d be wise to keep them indoors and away from the doors that lead to outside the house so they don’t end up running away, especially when it’s time for the fireworks. Though cats don’t really have this tendency, the fireworks could leave them scared and disoriented, making it hard for them to get back home.

If you’re hosting a party at home, cats would prefer a quiet space of their own where they can snuggle. Make sure they have constant supply of cool water and a spot where they can take cover like under furniture when the fireworks start flying through the air.

2. Keep decorations away from your cat.

Your furbaby might take them for snacks or would simply think they’re fun toys. So you’re money and energy for decorating doesn’t go to waste, keep them out of sight and out of mind. Also, you’d be avoiding a pre-New Year emergency visit to the vet.

Small items like confetti are easy to swallow but dangerous to their health so be mindful of where you place them and where the cat is. Place your pet in their room when it’s time to start decorating.

3. Calm them down before the fireworks begin.

Choose a room farthest from the party area to keep them from getting anxious from the noise. Place a bed, pillow or other piece of furniture where they can snuggle in. Draw the curtains and shut the windows to lessen the sound of the fireworks. Don’t take your kitty to watch the fireworks with you. They don’t appreciate it.

Keep them preoccupied with food and toys so they don’t get restless. Animals pick up on vibes from humans so it’s important that you also stay calm. There are calming products out in the market such as jackets and collars. Consult your vet about this, especially if you’re thinking of giving them some kind of medication.

4. Feed them only pet-friendly food.

Some of us are used to feeding our cats table scraps which is okay on other days when we have less on our mind and can monitor their food properly. However, in the New Year frenzy, we might accidentally give them a harmful treat. Or a well-meaning friend or relative could unknowingly feed them not meant for cat intake.

Stick to cat food on New Year’s to be safe, especially if you’re cooking for the party or bringing a plate.

Because of how much we love our pets, it’s easy to forget that some of our celebrations aren’t meant for them in our eagerness to share everything. Have them settled in for the night so everyone, cat included, gets peace of mind and a joyful New Year. Have a happy one!