Social and Sporting Events
Although having friends over may seem fun… it’s not always fun for our cats or dogs.
Loud noises from excitement is all part of enjoying your favourite sporting event or social gathering. It’s great to gather friends and family to catch up, especially after lockdown, however the change in routine and noise can be stressful for cats or dogs. The good news is there are things you can do to help them stay calm and cope through these occasions.
A calming supplement like Zylkene can help dogs and cats cope during lively sporting seasons when your pet might be uneasy about large groups of guests making loud and excited noises. Start Zylkene at least 1-2 days before the anticipated event or party.
It’s a good idea to discuss with your vet practice or behaviourist any short term changes you can make to help your cat or dog cope.
It’s important that your pets have their own safe place with which they have positive associations. This gives them somewhere to retreat when they are uneasy or worried with the unfamiliar faces and sudden loud cheering noises in their home.
Your cat or dog might try to run away when their home fills with new people, loud noises and heightened emotions. Just in case, make sure that the data linked to their microchips and the information on their tags is fully up to date so that they can be returned to you.
- Don’t force your cat or dog to come to you, especially if they are in their hiding place or den.
- Play with a toy and see if your cat or dog wants to join in, but don’t force them.
- Ignore unusual behaviour that is related to the stressful situation, unless they come to you first for reassurance. Give them affection, but no more than usual.
- Cats and dogs often pick up on their owner’s worry and overcompensating could make things worse.
- Provide distractions, for example new toys or treats.
- DO NOT punish or get angry with your cat or dog! This will only make them more uneasy.
