Emergency Preparedness Guide for Dogs and Cats: How to Keep them Safe and Healthy in a Crisis

 Are your dogs and cats safe in case of an Emergency?

 

Ask yourself this question... "Have I got all the necessities together for my beloved dog or cat in case of an emergency?" 

 

Whether you're dealing with natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, or food shortages, having a solid plan for your pets is as important as having one for yourself.

 

 

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 These days the unexpected could happen. It's important to be prepared for anything.

 

Why Should you Prepare for your Pets in Case of an Emergency?

 

 Well, number one -we "LUUUUUUUVE" our fur babes. Duh. They are our family. An extension of what we are about, what we do, and who we are. Right!

 

 

Your beloved pet relies on you for food, shelter, and protection. And without a backup plan, they might suffer from malnutrition, dehydration, and anxiety. 

 

They are 100% under our care. We owe it to them to protect their well-being and to give them a fighting chance at survival.    

 

 

First, you'll want to stock up on all the necessary supplies for your dog or cat.

 

 

I never thought about the convenience of bringing all these items together as a kit, instead of wandering around during an emergency, like a crazy person, trying to fish them from different areas of the house.

 

 

So, SO much easier! 

 

In this section, we will cover the importance of stocking up on the necessary supplies for your dog and cat, during an emergency. 

 

 Stocking up on Emergency supplies for your Dog

 

 

By creating an emergency box for your dog, you would prepared without worrying about not having important items on hand. This is especially important in the event of an emergency.

 

 So what does this look like?

 

"Not sure of what to put together?" "We've got you covered."

 

Here is what you should include:

• First Aid Kit: This is vet-approved and contains many essential items such as wound care, a muzzle, an emergency slip-lead leash, an instant ice pack, a pet first aid book and so much more! You can add this kit to your list of "must-have" items. 
• Dry dog food: Keep 2 weeks supply. Store the food in either a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container. 
• Canned Dog Food: Canned dog food has a longer shelf life than dry dog food. Make sure to rotate your canned dog food every 3 months. Just as you would your canned food. 
• Water supply: You should keep at least 1 gallon of water, per dog, per day. Have a place where you can store the water. Be sure to rotate following the date on the bottle. They generally have an expiration date of 2 years from the date of manufacture
• Collapsible Bowls: Lightweight and easy to store, perfect for travel or unexpected situations.
• Extra Leash, Collar, and special ID tags: It's always good to have a backup in case you lose or damage the original ones you use. 
• Dog Balm: To aid in wounds or to keep their paws and noses moisturized.
• Comfort Items: This is especially important for your pet. The smell of a favorite blanket may ease their anxiety during stressful times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Emergency Dog-Friendly Foods

 

If you run out of dog food or find yourself in a situation where dog food is unavailable here are a few safe and nutritious human foods that can help keep your dog nourished and fed. follow these steps: 

 

 Carbohydrates:

• Cooked Rice or Oats
• Cooked Pasta   

 

Meat for Protein:

•  Canned meats:  Tuna, sardines, and fish are a great source of protein and Omega fats. Purchase the ones in water because the canned meats in oil are high in sodium. 
• Cooked meats: Turkey, chicken or beef. (Bones removed)
• Freeze-dried foods: These can be a good long-term storage option as they take up less space and have a longer shelf life. Nature's Diet Simply Raw is a great option. It gives your dog up to 30 days of feedings. 

 

 So, you may be thinking, "What if there's no gas or electricity?" If that is the case, a good working camping stove would benefit!

 

A simple inexpensive camp stove that runs on propane, butane, or liquid fuel is good for an emergency kit.

 

 

 

Fruits and Vegetables:

• Carrots
• Green beans
• Sweet Potatoes
• Apples

For a FULL list of fruits and vegetables that you can feed your dog, check out our page on safe fruits and vegetables you can feed your dog, here. 

 

             

 

 

  Healthy Fats: 

Peanut Butter: As long as it’s free of xylitol, peanut butter is a high-energy source.

Coconut Oil: It can help with energy and support your dog’s coat and skin. 

 

 Dairy (in small amounts):

• Plain Yogurt: It contains probiotics, which can help with digestion. Avoid sweetened or flavored yogurt.

 

Dealing with Dogs with High Anxiety during an Emergency

It can be heartbreaking to see your dog baby in distress in times of emergencies. Here's how you can help.

• Stick to a routine: Try to keep feeding time, walks, and play sessions as normal as possible
• Calming Products: If your dog is prone to having anxiety, consider keeping calming products like pet CBD oil, calming chews, or anxiety vests in your emergency kit.
• Provide Comfort items. Even our pets need to be comforted. Familiar blankets with our smell help them to be calm. Sensory toys can be another way to provide comfort and stimulation to counteract boredom.

 

Stocking up on Emergency Supplies For your Cat

 

 

Even though cats are independent, they need essentials too. Cats, with their sensitive nature and particular dietary needs, require special attention in situations like natural disasters

 

An emergency kit ensures you’ll have everything on hand, even if stores are closed or supplies are limited.

 

 Here's what you should prepare for your feline in the event of an emergency:

• Cat Carrier: Always have one available to use. Even the most docile cats can become frightened. 
• Emergency Kit for Cats: This kit includes important items your cat may need, like collapsible bowls, litter tub, and litter, first aid supplies. It can easily be added to the list of supplies that you put together for your feline friend, that may not be included. 
• Water: The recommended amount is 1 gallon per cat per day. That is a lot of water! A larger water tank reservoir would be most beneficial. 
• Medications and Supplements: If your cat takes medication, keep at least a two-week supply in your emergency kit.
• Copies of Medical Records: Store vaccination records, a list of medications, and any important health notes in a waterproof container.
• Carrier and Extra ID Tags: If you need to evacuate, a secure carrier and up-to-date ID tags will help keep your cat safe and identifiable.
• Comfort Items: A favorite blanket, toy, or "believe it or not" even some catnip can provide comfort during a stressful time.

 

Cat Food source

In emergencies, regular pet food may run out, or you might not be able to access it. Cats rely heavily on animal-based proteins to survive. Here is a list of safe and nutritious foods for cats in an emergency.

• Cooked Chicken turkey or beef: Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly with bones taken out.
•  Canned Fish: Tuna, salmon, or sardines packed in water are safe in small amounts. Be cautious with sodium levels and avoid those packed in oil. Check out our FREE DIY Homemade cat treats with natural ingredients Recipe, here. 
• Eggs: Eggs are an excellent protein source. You can scramble them, or boil them for a quick convenient meal.
• Long-term food storage: Freeze-dried cat food has a long shelf life and is lightweight, making it a great option for emergency kits. It’s rehydrated with water and provides a balanced diet.

 

What Foods to Avoid:

Not all human foods are safe for cats. Please do not feed your cat: 

• Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Highly toxic and can cause serious health issues.
• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to cats.
• Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in cats.
• Dairy Products: Many cats are lactose intolerant and can’t digest milk properly.

 

Dealing with Stress and Anxiety in Cats during an Emergency

 

 

Emergencies can trigger stress, anxiety, or even fear in your cat, which can lead to behavioral issues like hiding, not eating, or even aggression

• Create a safe space
• Use Calming products such as CBD for pets. I use a brand called; HMone HempOil in a (2 Pack). It's reasonably priced. I have used it on both my small dogs and my 14-year-old cat, "Oreo." What an improvement in their appetite. My cat is much more calm. 
• Stick to a routine: Even in stressful times, cats thrive on routine.
• Comfort items: Items such as a familiar blanket work great!

 

 Most Importantly

 

Water, Water, Water: Dogs and cats can dehydrate faster in stressful situations. Make sure they always have access to clean water.

 

NOTE: As with any food product, it's advised to consult with your veterinarian before starting a new diet or snack implementation for your pet. Some pets may have pre-existing health challenges. Check out our full disclaimer here.

 

 Final Thoughts: 

"I hope this gives you some comfort in knowing that this will help you plan for short-term emergencies and also help you think ahead for long-term preparedness."

 

 For a free copy of your Emergency Preparedness checklist, click here.

 

Let me know in the comments if you tried the cat treat recipe or the CBD hemp oil. I would love your feedback.  -Annmarie