Pets and Storms: How To Help Them
Originally published at Harmonic Pets. Please leave any comments there.
The first rumbles of thunder for the spring storm season are booming overhead and my former feral cat alternates between cuddling in my lap and going to the window to look. Many pets, including cats and dogs, don’t do well in thunderstorms. And who can blame them? Even us humans get a little nervous when the wind picks up and the rain slashes against the windows. Even my bearded dragon stopped his pacing and stared through his glass doors at the window.
There are several things you can do to help your pet stay calm during storms.
First, prepare a place with a blanket or pet bed for your pet to go. This should be a cozy area, maybe a box on its side, where your pet can feel safe.
Second, stay calm yourself. In times of severe weather it can be difficult, but keep yourself as calm as possible. Centering yourself and taking deep breaths will help you stay calm and pass that calmness onto your pets.
Third, keep your routine as same as possible. If you need to seek shelter, do it, but try to keep the same foods and treats for your pet, please do. But try to keep your pet’s routine the same.
Fourth, allow time for extra cuddles and attention.
Some pets have different responses to storms than other. Of my cats, one really doesn’t care, and the former feral gets more concerned. The important thing is to understand your pet’s reaction and be able to care for him or her appropriately. And most of all, stay safe!