Fireworks and Your Pets: How To Help Them Cope

Firework season officially begins around the end of October - beginning of November with the arrival of Halloween and Bonfire Night. However, fireworks are available to purchase year-round and thanks to the limited rules regarding their use it is within the law to have a firework display on any given night, providing they are not set off between 11pm and 7am.

For most this merely extends the festivities, but for pet owners, particularly ones whose pets show signs of fear and distress at the sight and sound of fireworks, it can be a concerning and stressful time.

Many pets, not just cats and dogs, can be affected by a fear of fireworks. The majority of domesticated animals have an innate fear of loud noises, and their desire to hide or run away is a perfectly natural response to that fear.

The cocktail of increased stress hormones, sudden increase in heart rate and adrenaline - all of which are triggered during a scare - can be a dangerous cocktail for pets with heart problems, the very young and elderly and those with existing medical conditions. For this reason alone it is important to take your pet's fear of fireworks seriously and do all you can to help them through this time of year.

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Here are our top suggestions for helping your pets cope with firework fear:

Walkies

Try to take the last walk of the day well before sunset to ensure you're home before it gets dark. Taking a walk in the dark increases your risk of being out when the fireworks start.

Likewise, don't let your cat out after dark (even if they beg you!) Many cats go missing during this time of the year after becoming scared, running away and getting disoriented. Provide them with an indoor litter tray and they'll have no reason to need to go outside.

Make home a safe and calm haven

Close blinds and curtains early to block out the flashing lights and consider turning on the TV or radio to create a soothing background noise.

Provide safe places for your pet to hide (it's their natural instinct to do so). Somewhere dark and quiet away from windows and doors is ideal. Consider moving your pet's favourite blanket or bed into this safe space for increased comfort.

Keep calm and carry on!

Try not to overreact to your pet's fear. This confirms their feeling that something is wrong and can increase their anxiety. Animals read our emotional state and body language to assess for dangers so keeping calm and carrying on as normal will help to calm them.

Don't forget outside pets

Bring inside any outdoor pets that show signs of fear and distress, or do your best to soundproof their accommodation well in advance.

If you don't have room in your house for your rabbits (or chickens) make a safe space for them in an outhouse or garage instead.

Consider hormone therapy

Try a pheromone spray/diffuser in your home to soothe your pet. These are available for both cats and dogs and work by filling your home with a natural fragrance that your pet will find comforting. You can use these directly on bedding, toys and furniture too.

Make it fun!

Try using games as a distraction. Play with your pet or provide them with stimulating toys that will keep their attention off the fireworks and on to something fun! Soft toys filled with catnip are a great idea for cats, and for dogs try a chew toy stuffed with a tasty treat.

Be a comforting companion

Try to plan your social activities around being home with your pets on the noisiest evenings. Being aware of local public displays will help you to plan and predict when your pet might need you the most.

Even if they're hiding out behind the washing machine or under the bed your pet will still be comforted by your presence in the home.

If in doubt, seek veterinary advice

Your vet is the best person to speak to if you're concerned about your pet. They will be able to offer you advice suited to your pet's individual needs.

Never be tempted to self-medicate your pet with treatments available online. If in doubt always seek professional advice.