Is Your Cat Scared of Thunder? Here's What to Do

If you've ever had to coax a cat scared of thunder out from under the bed, you know how frightening loud noises can be for your kitty. Remember: Your cat's hearing is much stronger than yours, and they don't know that thunder is harmless — or that it follows lightning, which can help make it less surprising to people. The sudden bang can startle sensitive cats. Still, why are cats scared of thunder and not certain other loud sounds, like pulling the trash cans out to the curb?

The sudden booms and brightness of thunder and lightning aren't the only culprits for stress during storms. Cats can sense changes in barometric pressure and static electricity in the air, which can make them feel uncomfortable. These changes precede a storm and can aggravate feline arthritis or even headaches. This means sensitive cats may show signs of fear or stress before you hear the first distant rumble of thunder.

Are Cats Scared of Rain?

Are cats scared of heavy rain, too? Some cats couldn't care less if it's storming outside, remaining as calm and collected as they would on a sunny day. But heavy rain may come with strong wind or even hail, creating quite the racket. And while some cats might enjoy watching the trees sway or the hail bounce off the ground, both the sight and sound can increase feline stress in others.

Remember cats are creatures of habit. They generally dislike change and often consider new things "scary" until they become familiar. An unexpected noisy storm changes your cat's environment — including sights, sounds and even smells. For example, you may notice that smell in the air that often accompanies a storm (known as petrichor). Well, your cat's sense of smell is even more refined, picking up this odor, unusual odors carried by the wind and more.

Signs Your Cat Is Scared of Thunderstorms

So, are cats scared of thunder and lightning? It depends on the cat. A wide range of signs, either alone or in combination, can indicate your cat is scared of thunderstorms, including:

• Vocalizing more than usual (meowing, yowling, hissing)

• Fluffing up their fur and tail

• Pacing

• Drooling

• Seeking attention (meowing, pawing)

• Hiding in dark, secluded places, such as under the bed

How to Calm a Cat During a Thunderstorm

It's easier to prevent distress than relieve it once the storm arrives, so try to stay calm and relaxed. Here are some strategies to help minimize your cat's stress before and during a thunderstorm.

Reduce Static Impact

Carpeted areas accentuate static electricity. Moving your cat to a room with tile, wood or cement floors before a storm can reduce this effect.

Mute Sensory Overload

Close the drapes and blinds or relocate your cat to a room without windows to help shut out visual stimulation that may contribute to their unease. You can also use a sound machine or play white noise on your phone to muffle sudden storm noises.

Engage the Brain

Before the fear sets in, engage your cat's play instinct. This stimulates their brain and helps them associate storms with positive things, which can reduce the scare factor. Pull out their favorite interactive game, like a fishing pole lure toy. If they're food-motivated, they may enjoy "hunting" their food with a puzzle toy that dispenses healthy cat treats. If you have a kitten, throw a thunder party by tossing them a treat every time the thunder sounds. This teaches them from an early age that thunder means treats fall from the sky! Just make sure you're keeping an eye on their daily caloric intake and adjusting as necessary.