Why Are Cats Afraid of Thunder? Protecting Your Cat from Thunderstorm Stress and Anxiety

During the rainy season or in the summer when thunderstorms are frequent, we are often surprised by sudden thunderstorms, aren't we? Have you ever had an experience where your cat suddenly started shaking or hid somewhere and wouldn't come out?

In this article, we will explain in detail why cats are afraid of thunder and provide specific measures you can take to protect your cat from stress and anxiety.

Why cats are afraid of thunder

Most cats dislike thunder. Much like humans, thunder is something that scares cats and makes them feel anxious.

Instinctively sensing danger

Cats are creatures sensitive to changes in their environment. The unpredictable nature of thunder makes cats feel anxious, leading them to act on their instincts to sense danger and protect themselves.

Fear of thunder sounds and flashes

A cat's hearing is excellent. Because they can hear high-frequency sounds that humans cannot, the roar of thunder is deafening noise to them. Furthermore, lightning flashes also cause sudden shifts between light and dark.

Both of these are strong stimuli for cats, causing them to feel anxiety and fear.

Discomfort from rapid changes in atmospheric pressure

Changes in barometric pressure are also considered one of the reasons why cats fear thunder. Before a thunderstorm, the atmospheric pressure drops rapidly. Since cats can sensitively detect these changes, they may feel physical discomfort or sense an atmosphere that is different from usual, leading to anxiety.

Signs that a cat is afraid of thunder

When cats are afraid of thunder, they often exhibit the following behaviors. If you see these signs, understand that they are having a scary experience because of the thunder, and respond calmly.

Flattening ears, pulling whiskers back, tucking tail between legs

Flattening the ears, known as "airplane ears," is a representative sign of a cat's fear or wariness. They may also press their whiskers tightly against their face or tuck their tail between their legs.

Shaking

When a cat feels intense fear or anxiety, their sympathetic nervous system becomes active, which can cause the body to shake.

In addition to shaking, you may see the following physical reactions. These are signs that the cat is experiencing severe stress from the thunder and is in a state of panic.

• Rapid breathing (panting)
• Increased heart rate
• Piloerection (fur standing on end)
• Freezing
• Drooling
• Dilated pupils
• Urinating or defecating (accidents)

Hiding and not coming out

Due to the instinct to "protect themselves," they will try to hide in dark, narrow places, such as under the bed, inside a closet, or in small gaps.

Continuous meowing or growling

They may meow in a high-pitched voice unlike their usual one, or growl in an anxious manner. Some cats may also become clingier than usual.

Restlessness and panic

They may exhibit behaviors they don't normally show, such as running around the room, trying to escape through a window, scratching walls or furniture, or biting their owner. They may also engage in over-grooming, excessively licking their body to try and alleviate their anxiety.

What is thunder phobia in cats?

"My cat just won't stop shaking whenever it thunders..."

If your cat falls into a state of extreme fear or panic every time there is a thunderstorm, there is a possibility they have "thunder phobia."

Thunder phobia refers to a condition of excessive fear or anxiety toward thunder. It is thought that past experiences with thunder have become traumatic.

Because of this, they may become frightened by the sound of rain, the wind, or changes in atmospheric pressure even when there is no actual thunder.

Cats can be subjected to chronic stress, which can lead not only to loss of appetite and poor physical health but also potentially to behavioral problems.

If you suspect your cat may have thunder phobia, start by consulting a veterinarian. Behavioral therapy or, in some cases, drug therapy can be considered as options.

Thunderstorm measures for cats

To calm a cat that is afraid of thunder, both long-term measures and short-term measures for when thunder occurs are necessary.

1. Provide a safe hiding place

Create a narrow, dark space where your cat can feel calm. Draping a blanket over a cage or carrier, or leaving the door to a closet or cupboard open is sufficient.

By having a place where your cat can instinctively retreat in an emergency, you can provide them with a sense of security. This will also serve as a sanctuary during earthquakes or fireworks.

2. Thorough escape prevention

If a cat panics due to thunder, they may try to bolt out of windows or doors. Ensure escape prevention measures are solid, and remember to check that doors and windows are locked on days when thunder is in the forecast.

2. Block out the sound and light of thunder

Close the storm shutters, and then pull thick or blackout curtains to block out the sound and light of thunder as much as possible. If possible, avoid being near windows and have your cat move to the center of the house.

3. Act as you normally would

If you, the owner, become afraid of the thunder, it will further incite your cat's anxiety. It is important for you to stay calm first and give your cat peace of mind by showing them that "thunder is nothing to be afraid of."

When a cat is afraid of thunder, you may want to fuss over them, but this can actually be counterproductive. Try not to react excessively and act as you normally would.

4. Distract them with toys or treats

If you see signs that they are afraid of thunder, try to distract them with their favorite toys or treats. If they can come to associate the sound of thunder with something fun, it may help reduce their stress and anxiety.

Summary

The reason cats are afraid of thunder is due to their excellent senses and their instinct to be sensitive to environmental changes. Even humans find thunder scary, right?

It is important not to overlook the signs that your cat is frightened and to take appropriate measures, such as providing a safe hiding place and blocking out the sound and light of the thunder. Please try out these thunderstorm measures so that your cat can spend time in comfort, even on days with thunder.