We know keeping your pet safe and happy is your top priority. So, when you can tell they’re anxious during storms, you naturally want to know how to soothe them.
We’ve put together a handy guide on everything you need to know about how to calm your pet in a storm.
Why storms can be frightening for pets
Loud noises and flashes of light can be distressing for pets. This is the same reason pets are often scared of fireworks.
This is especially true if they’ve experienced past trauma, so rescue dogs and cats may be more scared of thunder and lightning.
Naturally anxious pets can also be badly affected by storms.
How to spot signs of fear in pets during a thunderstorm
There are a few ways your dog or cat can show signs of fear or stress during a storm. Look out for:
- shaking
- pinned back ears
- a tucked tail
- excessive whining, barking or hissing
- having ‘accidents’ inside the home for dogs, or outside of the litter tray for cats
- hiding or trying to make themselves very small
They may also be more prone to scratching or chewing things, as this is their way of relieving anxiety.
For more tips on how to be tuned in to your pet’s emotions, read our guide to understanding your cat’s body language or our guide to understanding your dog’s body language.
How to calm your pets during a storm
It can be stressful seeing your pet distressed. Here are some tips for keeping them calm.
1. Create a safe space
It’s important to make sure your pets have a covered, cosy space where they can retreat to during storms.
If your dog has a crate, cover the top and sides with blankets to cover it entirely.
Make sure they have comfortable bedding in their safe space, as well as their favourite toys. Also, putting an item of your clothing in there can often help, so they’re surrounded by familiar scents.
Cats also need an enclosed space. You could DIY a little nest using a cardboard box and lots of bedding, or alternatively you can buy cat igloos.
Some cats feel safer higher up. If you can, try to arrange their ‘safe space’ on top of their cat tree or on a secure bookshelf.
2. Keep your pets indoors
Dogs and cats have very sensitive hearing and smell, which means they can often sense changes in the weather before their owners do.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast during storm seasons and keep your pets indoors when the storm hits.
Close all the windows and doors in your house, as loud noises can cause some dogs and cats to escape outdoors.
Also, close your curtains or blinds so they won’t be startled by flashes of light if there’s lightning.
3. Play soothing music
Play some calming music in your home, or otherwise switch on the TV or radio to something soothing.
Some pet owners also find playing white noise helps.
You ideally just want to muffle some of the noises of the storm and give them some background noise, so they have a sense of normality.
4. Have an emergency kit ready
Make sure you have all the important bits you need on hand to keep your pet calm during a storm.
Your kit should include:
- plenty of food
- enough blankets and soft bedding
- high-value treats
- any medication they need
- extra cat litter
- toys designed for mental stimulation, like lick mats or pet puzzles
You could run out and grab anything you’re missing – but it’s best not to leave your pet alone in a storm - they could become far more distressed.
Having said that, don’t expect your pet to be extremely cuddly. If you sense them pulling away, let them have their space.
5. Keep them distracted
The best way to keep dogs distracted is through food and mental stimulation. You can use frozen treats, snuffle mats, or long-lasting chews to keep them occupied.
If they’re able to, you could also go through some training with them. This will keep them focussed on you (and their treat rewards) rather than the storm.
With cats, it’s also important to find toys that keep them occupied and stimulated. Treats are also a good call - there are even treats designed to calm them down a little.
It may be a good idea to buy them a new toy specifically for storm season and only use it during storms, as they’ll likely stay interested in it longer as it’s new and exciting.
6. Stay calm
Lastly, try to stay calm yourself.
Dogs and cats can sense your anxiety or stress, and it will likely make them more distressed if they’re aware you’re feeling uneasy too.
As long as you’re prepared, can keep them busy and make sure your home feels comfortable and safe, you’ve done all you can.
Keep their tags up to date
If the worst happens and your cat or dog bolts during a storm, you want to do everything in your power to make sure you can find them.
The UK law says your pet must be microchipped and have a tag on their collar.
The tag needs to include your name, address and phone number.
Your pet’s microchip includes a unique code, which is linked to your contact details on your vet’s database.
Make sure you keep your contact details up to date with both your vet and on their collar tag.
