Firework season, whether it’s Bonfire Night or New Year’s Eve, can be exciting for us but stressful for our furry friends. Sudden bangs, bright flashes, and unfamiliar noises can leave cats, dogs, rabbits, and other pets feeling anxious or unsettled.
At Pawsome Vets, we understand how worrying this can be. With a little preparation and some thoughtful strategies, you can help your pets stay relaxed and safe whilst enjoying the celebrations together.
Start With Soothing Sounds
Music can be a surprisingly powerful tool to calm anxious pets. At our clinic, we often use soft background tunes to help pets feel more at ease during visits, especially in kennels and cattery.
During fireworks, leaving the TV on quietly or playing a calming playlist can help mask the sudden bangs outside. Even radio stations like Classic FM broadcast pet-friendly shows during firework season, providing gentle music designed to reduce stress and anxiety. This can work for both our pets and us!
Create a Comfort Zone
Pets need a safe retreat where they can hide away and feel secure. For dogs and cats, a crate or a quiet corner works perfectly. You can make it more inviting by:
- Draping blankets or towels over the top to soften sounds and block bright flashes.
- Adding extra bedding so they have a soft place to rest.
- Keeping water and a few favourite treats nearby.
- Providing a litter tray for cats, so they don’t need to leave their safe space.
- Including a few toys or puzzle feeders to help them stay occupied.
Smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs may also benefit from being moved indoors during firework displays. This helps reduce stress and protects them from loud outdoor noises.
Use Calming Sprays
Calming sprays and diffusers are another effective way to reduce firework-related anxiety. Some use pheromones that mimic natural comfort signals, whilst others contain gentle herbal blends to promote relaxation.
Many products work for a wide range of pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and even horses. They’re available in plug-ins, diffusers, or handheld sprays.
For dogs, spraying a bandana or scarf that they wear can help maintain a sense of calm throughout the evening. Spritzing bedding or favourite resting spots is equally effective for cats and smaller pets.
Block Out Light
Some animals are more sensitive to the flashes rather than the noise. Closing curtains or blinds before dusk can help prevent sudden bursts of light from startling them.
Pair this with soft music or background noise for an added calming effect. Outdoor cats should be brought inside before it gets dark and kept safely indoors until morning. Even spending a little time near your pet during the fireworks can make a big difference. Most pets feel calmer with their owners close by.
Gradual Desensitisation
One of the best ways to help pets handle firework season is gradual desensitisation. For puppies and kittens, play low-volume recordings of fireworks and reward calm behaviour with treats and praise.
Older pets can benefit too. Play the sounds during positive experiences like mealtime or playtime. Over time, this helps your pet associate fireworks with good experiences rather than fear, making future displays much less stressful.
When Medication Can Help
Even with careful planning, some pets may continue to struggle during fireworks. In these cases, prescription medication for pet anxiety may be the safest and most effective solution.
If your pet shows extreme fear each year, speak to our veterinary team at Pawsome Vets. We’ll work with you to find the right support, ensuring your pet stays calm and comfortable while fireworks are happening.
Final Tips for a Calm Firework Season
Fireworks can be fun for humans, but for pets, they can be overwhelming. Creating a safe space, using calming sprays, playing soothing music, and gradually desensitising your pet to fireworks are all proven strategies to reduce anxiety.
With thoughtful preparation and care, you can enjoy the celebrations while keeping your pets relaxed, safe, and happy at home.
