Rescue cat left distressed while nursing kittens after fireworks set off near Scottish SPCA centre

A rescued cat was left distressed as she nursed her four seven-week-old kittens after fireworks were set off near a rehoming centre in Aberdeenshire.

Taz arrived at the Scottish SPCA’s Aberdeenshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre from a multi-cat household, along with her kittens Tabasco, Banana, Serrano and Fatalii.

The animal welfare charity said that over the weekend, fireworks left many animals upset, with cats in its care being sick and suffering an upset stomach.

Tom Underwood, veterinary and behaviour director at the Scottish SPCA, said fireworks pose an “entirely preventable animal welfare problem”, causing many pets to panic, attempt to escape, injure themselves or become distressed.

He added: “For those in our care, this is particularly concerning. Many have already experienced trauma, neglect, abuse or instability.

“They are living in an unfamiliar environment, often surrounded by unfamiliar animals and people, and are relying on us to provide somewhere safe and predictable.

“Fireworks can undermine that sense of security in an instant. For a nursing cat the impact can be particularly concerning.

“Sudden loud noises may cause significant stress and anxiety at a time when she needs to feel safe and settled to care for her kittens.

“Distress may disrupt maternal behaviour, affect nursing and bonding, and potentially compromise the welfare of the entire litter.

“As the Scottish SPCA our responsibility is to prevent suffering wherever we can. We should not accept animals being frightened, injured or potentially killed as an inevitable consequence of public celebrations.”

The Scottish SPCA has called for a ban on the private sale and use of fireworks, allowing only for organised and regulated displays.

The charity says the sudden bangs and intense flashes cause fear, panic and disorientation for many animals, noting that wildlife cannot be brought indoors or prepare for what is coming.

Nichola Strachan, head of advocacy and strategic partnerships at the Scottish SPCA, said: “Fireworks can cause intense fear and distress for pets, horses, farmed animals and wildlife. The impact goes beyond noise, with sudden flashes, unpredictable explosions and falling debris creating further risks.

“Our teams see the consequences firsthand, including for rescued animals who should be able to rest and recover in our care.

“We are calling on the UK Government to ban the private sale and use of fireworks, limiting their use to professionally organised, regulated displays.

“We also want the Scottish Government to use its devolved powers to strengthen protections. Animals should not have to suffer as a consequence of celebration.”