Cats Panic During Thunderstorms! Explaining Why They're Afraid and How to Cope

Thunder can cause many cats to panic.

If your cat shivers, panics, becomes restless, or hides on a stormy day, it's because they're scared of the thunder.

This article will explain why cats are afraid of thunder and what to do when your cat is scared.

Why Cats Are Afraid of Thunder

Humans also find the loud noise and bright flashes of lightning scary. It's understandable to want to jump and run away when there's a sudden, strong flash of light followed by a loud noise.

Why are cats afraid of thunder?

The Sound of Thunder is Scary

Cats have excellent hearing, so much so that they can hear the footsteps of mice walking underground. Since sounds are many times louder for them than for humans, the "BOOM!" of thunder must be terrifying.

The rumbling sound of thunder is also frightening for cats. It's believed that they become scared because they detect an unusual change.

Startled by the Flash of Lightning

While the sound of thunder is scary, the sudden flash of lightning is also startling. Even if they're initially unfazed, cats may learn that a flash of light is followed by a loud noise, causing them to run away just from the flash.

Dislike Low Atmospheric Pressure

Thunderstorms and rainy days are associated with low atmospheric pressure. Cats are said to dislike low pressure, and on rainy days, you might see them sleeping more or seeming less energetic than usual.

They also dislike high humidity. Cat fur and whiskers easily absorb moisture, making them feel very uncomfortable.

Because the Owner is Scared

Cats are sensitive to "unusual situations." If the owner is startled by thunder, screams, or paces restlessly, their fear will transfer to the cat.

What Cats Do When They're Scared of Thunder

If your cat runs, hides, or shakes on a stormy day, it means they are feeling scared.

When under severe stress, they may engage in excessive grooming, scratch excessively, or become aggressive towards their owners or other cats in the household to cope. Some may even experience vomiting or diarrhea.

Cats in a panicked state due to thunder can behave in unexpected ways.

Beware of Escapes!

Cats instinctively try to get away from dangerous places. Since they can't understand that thunder is a natural phenomenon, they might try to flee outside to avoid the perceived attack. In a state of panic, they might tear through screens or force windows open to escape.

It's not just thunder; many cats also escape due to fear of earthquakes, fireworks, or the sound of a starting pistol at a sports day.

Possibility of Astraphobia

Astraphobia in cats refers to when a cat exhibits an abnormal fear response to thunder.

They react excessively to the sound and light of thunder, changes in atmospheric pressure, and humidity changes, causing them to panic. If you observe the following symptoms in your cat on a stormy day, they might have astraphobia:

• Shaking
• Meowing constantly or growling
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea/vomiting
• Hyperventilation
• Trying to escape outside
• Becoming aggressive, destructive behavior
• Shock symptoms

Astraphobia often develops from past trauma. Therefore, some cats may exhibit astraphobia symptoms due to the sound of heavy rain or flashes of light.

How to Help a Cat That is Scared of Thunder

What should owners do when it thunders?

First and foremost, it's important for the owner to remain calm. If the owner is scared of thunder, that fear will transfer to the cat.

Even when the cat is in a state of panic, the owner should always speak to the cat gently.

There are other ways to help a cat that is scared of thunder, so keep them in mind.

Create a Safe Space for Your Cat

Cats feel safe in dark, confined spaces. Create a hiding place or shelter for them to retreat to when they're scared of thunder.

Simply draping a blanket over their usual cage, carrier, or cat bed is fine. The back of a closet or a gap between furniture can also work, but it's a good idea to place cardboard boxes beforehand to prevent them from going too far into a confined space.

Block Out the Sound of Thunder

If thunder is forecast, close storm shutters and curtains, and move your cat as close to the center of the house as possible.

Holding your cat or staying close to them can also help them feel secure. However, if your cat is in an agitated state, observe them without unnecessarily touching them.

Distract Them with Treats or Play

If your cat shows signs of being scared of thunder, try distracting them with their favorite treats or play. For example, when you hear thunder, give them a Churu (cat treat) so that they gradually associate the sound of thunder with enjoyable times.

Overcome It Over Time

You can also try training them by playing soft sounds of thunder or fireworks using YouTube or a CD. While comforting your cat by holding them, gradually increase the volume.

Take Escape Prevention Measures

Even normally docile cats can get startled by thunder and escape. In addition to securing doors and windows to prevent escape, always have a cat collar and an ID tag on hand for emergencies.

Cat collars can sometimes come off during an escape. To reliably prove ownership, a microchip is essential.

Cat collars, ID tags, and microchips are useful not only for escapes during thunderstorms but also during disasters like earthquakes and floods. It's crucial to take steps to facilitate reunions in case of an emergency.

Summary

Some cats are not scared of thunder. Some brave ones even nap peacefully, no matter how loud the noise.

Whether a cat is scared of thunder largely depends on its personality and past traumas. Also, cats can sense anxiety and fear if their owners are scared of thunder.

If your cat's panic symptoms are severe or if you suspect astraphobia, consult a vet. Medication might be effective depending on your cat's symptoms.

When your cat is scared of thunder, first, you, the owner, need to stay calm. Then, prepare a safe space where your cat can feel secure. Also, in case of an escape, it's important to always have a cat collar, ID tag, and microchip on them.

Start doing what you can for your cat right now!