10 Vet Tips for keeping your pet calm during fireworks

2-4 weeks before the fireworks start to come out, trial a calming routine with your pet. 

Begin by creating a safe space in your home for your pet to go to when they need it. Many dogs will benefit from a den, these can be easily made from covering furniture (like a table or an existing crate) with a blanket to help muffle the sounds. Cats instinctively feel safest when they are high up, so a cat tree high shelf or boxes tends to work as a good den. All pet dens should be away from doors and windows, usually in a quiet area of the home where your pet would retreat to.

It’s good to consider anti-anxiety products to help your pet cope.

We'd recommend pheromone plug-in diffusers for ongoing calming. For those stressful moments try on-the-go products like Itch Calm Treats for Cats and Dogs. It’s important to test anxiety products on your pet in the lead up to firework season to make sure they are effective for your pet and create a tranquil environment that your pet is familiar with.

Walk your dog before it gets dark

Take your dog out before the fireworks come out so they aren’t startled on their walk.

Feed your pet a big meal before the fireworks start

A cat or dog with a full stomach is more likely to be sleepy which helps to calm them down.

Hydration stations

Make sure there’s lots of water available for them, in different parts of the house.

Close all windows and doors

Try to muffle the sound as much as you can. I’d suggest drawing the curtains to block out the flashes of fireworks too.

Avoid letting your pet outside

If you have a cat flap, block it up for the evening and if you do let your pet out, supervise them at all times as it’s very common for fireworks to cause pets to run away from home.

Distract your pets from the fireworks

Try to drown out the noise of fireworks with music or television. You can opt for soothing music to not just help distract your pet but also calm them. Remember to ignore the fireworks yourself - Convincing your pet everything is alright, helps more than you think it would.

Give your pet a toy

Providing puzzle feeders or kongs can not only distract your pet from the fireworks but it is proven to have a calming effect on them.

If your pet is stressed don’t ignore them or over cuddle them

It’s important to make sure your pet isn’t alone during fireworks. If your pet seeks reassurance from you then it’s fine to quietly and calmly comfort them, but don’t be over-sympathetic with your pet. Cats like to be in control of how they cope in a frightening situation so don’t be tempted to pick them up or restrain them if they are scared.