Thunder, Lightning and Pets: Keeping Your Pet Calm in Storms

As summer fades and autumn approaches, stormy weather becomes more common, often bringing thunder and lightning that can distress your pets. While the change in seasons may affect moods, it is the powerful sounds and flashes of storms that truly unsettle many cats and dogs.

Unlike fireworks, which pet owners can anticipate and prepare for, storms often strike unexpectedly, leaving pets and their owners to cope with sudden fear and anxiety. Here are compassionate, expert-backed strategies to help you support your pet through these challenging times.

Understanding Your Pet’s Storm Sensitivity

Pets are far more sensitive than people to changes in the environment. Many can sense shifts in air pressure, humidity, and static electricity before a storm begins. This heightened awareness can make them restless, clingy, or inclined to hide, indicating they know bad weather is imminent.

For example, cats often retreat to their favourite hideouts, while dogs may become hesitant to go outside or seek constant reassurance from their owners. Observing your pet’s behaviour ahead of storms can offer valuable cues to prepare a calm environment for them.

Common Fear Responses in Pets During Thunderstorms

Loud claps of thunder, bright flashes of lightning, and the sudden atmospheric changes can trigger a flight response in pets. Hiding in small enclosed spaces is their natural way of coping with these threats. Allow your pet to find and stay in their safe spot without forcing them out.

It is important to be cautious when comforting your frightened pet; dogs and cats under stress might display defensive aggression if they feel trapped. Always approach gently and respect their space.

How Your Behaviour Affects Your Pet’s Anxiety

Pets are attuned to their owners’ emotions and behaviours. If you show signs of fear or fuss excessively over your pet during storms, this can inadvertently escalate their anxiety. Instead, maintain a calm, steady tone and normal behaviour to reassure your pet that the situation is under control.

Creating a Safe, Comfortable Space Indoors

When the storm begins, bring your pets indoors and help block out the noise and flashes by closing windows and curtains. Using a radio or TV to provide background noise can muffle the thunder's impact. Offer access to their favourite cosy areas where they feel secure and minimise distractions from children or guests during the storm.

What to Do if Your Cat Is Outside When a Storm Hits

Outdoor cats usually seek shelter on their own during storms, but sudden bad weather can disorient them and potentially take them out of their familiar territory. If your cat is out longer than usual, use familiar sound cues such as rattling their food bowls or calling their name gently to help guide them home.

Ensure your cat is microchipped and wears a collar with your contact details to increase the chances of being reunited if they become lost.

Managing Storm Anxiety While Walking Your Dog

If you are caught outdoors when a storm starts, find shelter quickly and keep your dog close. Keep your dog on a lead and speak calmly to help soothe them.

Always ensure your dog wears a collar with identification. Remember that lightning can pose a risk, albeit very small. Avoid standing in open fields or under lone tall trees; instead, wooded areas offer safer shelter during storms.

If exposed, remove metal items from yourself and your dog and keep a low posture to minimise the risk of lightning strikes. Once the storm passes, allow your dog to calm down before heading home.

Additional Tips to Help Your Pet Through Storms

• Consider using vet-recommended calming products or pheromone diffusers for pets with severe anxiety.
• Distract your pet with toys or gentle play to redirect their focus away from the storm.
• Secure all exits and fences to prevent frightened pets from escaping and getting lost.
• If storm anxiety is persistent and severe, consult a qualified animal behaviourist or your vet for tailored support and possible medication.

Storms can be a distressing time for your pets, but with thoughtful preparation, calm presence, and practical measures, you can greatly ease their fear and keep them safe and comforted.

For those looking after German Shepherd puppies or British Shorthair kittens, understanding their specific sensitivities and needs will help you prepare even better for storm seasons.