Top tips for keeping pets calm during fireworks

Our specialists have gathered their top tips to avoid your pet from getting distressed throughout the course of firework night!

Animals have very acute hearing so it’s very common for the noise from fireworks to cause distress. The PDSA found that 40% of cat and dog owners report that their pet is afraid of fireworks. 

There’s lots of advice available on how to keep your pet calm around bonfire night. Every pet is different and you’ll know the best way to console your pet. Here are the top 10 tips from our specialists. 

1. Avoid leaving your pet alone around firework night
2. Walk dogs earlier in the day before the fireworks start
3. Keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being set off
4. Ensure doors, windows and catflaps are secured so they can’t escape if spooked
5. Close curtains to minimise the sound and flashes from fireworks
6. Create a quiet space or provide hiding places where pets can feel safe
7. Allow your pet to go away and hide if they want to
8. Comfort your pet if they prefer reassurance when stressed
9. If your pet is usually comfortable with the sound of music or the TV you could switch them on to muffle some of the firework noise
10. Keep calm and go about your normal routine – pets can pick up on an owner’s anxiety and changes in behaviour.

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