Cats sleep about 16 hours a day, so it’s no wonder that cats and construction noise aren’t a good match. Cats are readily frightened by sudden loud noises, like those made by power drills and saws.
We’ll look at how to keep your cat quiet while there’s construction going on in or around your house.
Give Your Cat the Perfect Day
Get the Free Ebook!
Why Is My Cat Scared Of Construction?
When cats hear construction noises, they might be terrified, especially if they’ve never been there before. The loud, booming noises might agitate them, making them fearful and perplexed.
Cats can become anxious when their routine is disrupted, such as by moving furniture or meeting new people.
At worst, your cat may even think it’s a physical threat—or an intruder in their territory—and defend itself by hissing or using its claws or teeth.
If your cat is often nervous in new environments or aggressive toward strangers and other animals, you should know that construction sites might seem like a potential threat.
Does Construction Noise Bother Cats?
Yes, construction noise bothers cats. Cats are easily stressed, and noise from construction can cause undue stress. This can lead to behavioral problems such as inappropriate urination and scratching.
Cats also tend to prefer quieter environments, so construction noise can be disruptive to their daily routine.
Most cats hate construction noise. The unrest and chaos can scare them, triggering a state of hyper-vigilance that makes it hard for them to relax and enjoy cuddling with you.
Many veterinarians believe that constant exposure to sound can affect a cat’s hearing, making her even more susceptible to anxiety over loud noises.
If your cat is afraid of construction noise, there are things you can do to make them feel more comfortable when your home is being worked on—though no amount of reassurance will get them over their fears altogether.
How Can I Help My Cat Become More Accustomed To Loud Noises Like Hammering, Sawing, and Jackhammering?
The best way to help your cat adjust to loud noises depends on the individual cat and the noise itself.
However, some tips that may be helpful include providing your cat with a comfortable place to hide when the noise is happening, feeding them while the noise is happening, and providing them with toys that can be played with while the noise is happening.
Some cats naturally hate loud noises while they don’t faze others. Some can adjust over time and become accustomed to these sounds; other cats never will.
What If I Want To Keep My Windows Open During The Summer But Want To Protect My Cats From Loud Noises Outside?
If you want to keep your windows open during the summer but want to protect your cats from loud noises outside, you can use noise-canceling window treatments.
These treatments help to reduce the amount of noise that is transmitted into the home and can be particularly helpful for cats who may be fearful of loud noises.
Additionally, noise-canceling window treatments can help to improve indoor air quality, which is beneficial for everyone in the home.
How Can I Tell If My Cat Is Stressed By Building Works?
Some signs that your cat may be stressed by the construction activity include hiding, refusing to eat, excessive scratching, and difficulty walking or staying calm.
If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for a checkup. While construction can be a stressful experience for humans, it can be even more so for cats.
Make sure to keep your cat safe and stress-free by providing them with plenty of love and attention
You might be surprised to learn that many of the indicators of cat stress are identical to those of pain in your cat. These can include the following:
- Reluctance or hesitation when using the litter tray
- Less eating and drinking
- Overeating
- Using the cat flap, or sitting on your lap reluctance or hesitation when using the litter tray
- An increase in worry or panic that is noticeable
- Feigning sleep or seeming to be disturbed when sleeping
- Pacing, circling, or acting agitated
- A rough or matted coat as a result of insufficient grooming
- grooming the fur
- In the residence, soiling or spraying
- Using the cat flap or sitting on your lap
How Can I Calm My Cat Down In Construction?
Toys or a scratching post will keep your cat engaged. This will allow them to stay intellectually and physically active, which will help them to feel less anxious. Every few minutes, distract your cat with vocalizations like “meow” or “sneeze.”
This will aid in preventing them from feeling agitated and nervous. During construction, try not to startle or scare your cat.
They may get agitated and apprehensive as a result of this. Ensure that they have plenty of water and food while the building is underway.
This will keep them hydrated and nourished, which will make them feel less anxious.
We understand that it is sometimes impossible to stop your cat from being nervous around construction.
However, there are ways to help keep them calm:
First, make sure that they have somewhere to hide if they want to get away from it all.
If you don’t want them inside while they work on your house, try putting a blanket or a cat house outside where they can retreat when they feel like avoiding it all.
Of course, some cats enjoy watching what happens and will sit by windows or doors and watch as things go on construction sites.
This doesn’t bother some cats, but for others, it might not be pleasant for them to see all of these new people walking around or lots of machines running at once.
How Do You Keep Cats Safe During Renovations?
It can be tricky trying to keep cats safe while renovations are taking place, but there are a few things that you can do to help make the process a bit easier.
- First, set up a kitty safe room. This can be a small, enclosed area that is out of the way of the renovation and has food and water available. In an emergency, your cat can retreat to this safe space and be guaranteed some comfort.
- Secondly, make sure that all renovation materials are properly secured. This includes screws, nails, wood, and other materials that could be dangerous if they were to fall on or near your cat.
- Last but not least, keep an eye on your cat during the renovation process. Don’t hesitate to call a veterinarian or the police if something seems off. They can come and check on your cat and make sure that everything is okay.
What to Do With Cats During House Renovations
One of the most common queries we receive is what to do with cats during house renovations. Here are a few tips to help keep your cats safe and happy during the process:
- Keep them indoors during the renovation process. This will keep them safe from any debris or falling objects that could be dangerous.
- Feed them frequently and make sure their food is fresh and clean.
- Keep a litter box close by, and make sure their water is always fresh and clean.
- Play with them frequently, and make sure they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained.
- Monitor their behavior regularly, and if they become anxious or frightened, take them to the veterinarian for a check-up.
Are You Painting With Cats In the House-Are Paint Fumes Harmful To cats?
Well, Paint fumes can be harmful to cats if they are exposed to large amounts of paint fumes.
Paint fumes are composed of numerous harmful chemicals, and some of these chemicals can be harmful to cats if inhaled or ingested.
If you are painting in your home and your cat is present, it is important to take precautions to keep them safe. You can try to keep the area around you free of paint, and if you need to use the paint, make sure to use a mask and gloves.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my cat from being so scared of everything?
To help your cat overcome their phobia, give them food and toys. Encourage engagement with toys, which cats can’t seem to get enough of. A long feather wand is ideal since it allows the cat to interact with you while maintaining a safe distance. Place snacks near your cat and walk away if your cat is fearful. If your cat is frightened of other animals, try simulating their noises.
How do I help my cat with building site noise?
Offer a cat-safe room or window for your cat to retreat to or sit out when necessary. Keep your feline friend indoors and play some soothing classical music. You can also consider purchasing a sound machine that emits white noise and will prevent your cat from hearing construction sounds. Your vet will be able to recommend one that could help you settle down the agitated kitty at home.
Why is my cat afraid of construction?
Cats are territorial and don’t like to share their territory, including their home. The noises and unfamiliar sights of a construction site can be very stressful to little kitties. If possible, build a window or area inside the home where they can stay away from the noise if they want to avoid it altogether. Some cats will prefer a more secure room with food, water, and a litter box so keep this in mind when deciding if you want your cat indoors or outdoors during construction.
How do I keep my cat calm during building site noise?
Make sure your cat has access to food, water, litter box, and shelter at all times. Lots of toys and a feather wand are ideal since they allow your cat to play and interact with you from a safe distance. Playing soft music, and having a white noise machine will help as well. Also, If your cat seems anxious during construction, don’t force them to come out for attention, even if they’re meowing for it. Instead, go to them only when they feel comfortable with you being around them.
How long does it take for my cat to settle into the sounds?
It depends on the cat – some can take a bit longer than others. Some cats need several months of treatment while others respond in a matter of weeks. If your cat is frightened by noises, remember that time can help your cat to adjust and cope with construction noises.
Final Words
Whether or whether your cat’s anxiety is reasonable, you may help them overcome it by gradually exposing them to construction sounds from a safe distance.
If he or she appears to be anxious, don’t push them; instead, gradually increase exposure until he or she feels safe.
Give him/her lots of loving attention while he/she is relaxed and doing what comes easily to him/her, so he/she doesn’t feel intimidated by you if anything else catches them off guard.
References
- https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/home-and-environment/cats-and-building-works
- https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/cat-scared-noise-how-help-fearful-cats
- https://justcatsclinic.com/home-renovations-and-your-cat-keeping-your-sanity/
- https://www.petplace.com/article/cats/vet-qa-parent/vet-qa/minimize-cat-stress-with-outdoor-construction/
