Firework season can be a magical time for many of us, but for pets and other animals, sudden bangs, flashes, vibrations and unfamiliar smells can trigger real fear and distress. Local vet practice worker Juliette Taylor explains how to make the season less stressful for the animals in your care.
Why fireworks frighten animals
Firework season is fast approaching and whilst some people enjoy the whole event, for animals, sudden bangs, flashes, vibrations and unfamiliar smells may trigger a strong fear response and cause distress. Animals cannot understand where the disturbance comes from or when it will end.
Prevention starts early
The key factor is prevention, not cure. Ideally, puppies and kittens should be desensitised to a variety of social experiences from a very young age. However, where that has not been possible, it is important to start planning well before the event.
Before the big night: how to prepare
- Check local event notices and speak to neighbours so that displays are less likely to take you by surprise.
- Ensure dogs, cats and horses are microchipped and that registration details are current. Dogs should also be wearing a collar and identification tag. Check fences, gates, doors, cat flaps, hutches and stable fittings for weaknesses through which a frightened animal could escape.
- Create a secure retreat that the animal can use voluntarily. This might be a covered crate, cupboard, quiet room or space beneath furniture, furnished with familiar bedding and water. Introduce it when the home is calm and reward relaxed visits; never shut an animal inside unless it is already comfortable there. Keep everyday routines as consistent as possible: walk dogs in daylight, feed animals at their usual time, and bring cats indoors before dusk. Avoid taking any animal to a firework display.
On the night: keeping pets calm
- Close windows and curtains, secure external doors and block cat flaps. Use familiar television, radio or steady background sound to soften outside noise, but don’t play it excessively loudly. Keep lighting on to reduce the contrast of flashes.
- Remain calm and behave normally. If an animal seeks contact, gentle reassurance is appropriate; if it chooses to hide, allow it to do so. Don’t drag it out, restrain it unnecessarily, tell it off or react dramatically – fear is not disobedience, and punishment can intensify the association between fireworks and danger.
- Whenever possible, stay at home and supervise discreetly. Offer access to fresh water and normal food, although a very anxious animal may not eat. Safe chew items, food-dispensing toys or simple games can help animals that are willing to engage, but never force participation. Take dogs into the garden only when necessary, keep them on a lead, and check that no fireworks are active nearby. Don’t let cats outside until the disturbance has clearly ended.
Small pets, rabbits and birds
If rabbits, guinea pigs or other small pets live outdoors, move their enclosure into a quiet, secure shed, garage or indoor room when practical. Otherwise, turn the enclosure towards a wall and partially cover it with thick blankets to reduce light and sound, while maintaining good ventilation. Provide generous bedding so animals can burrow and keep bonded companions together. Move indoor cages away from windows. Birds should have a calm, dim environment, with their cage partly covered without restricting airflow.
Horses and livestock
Inspect fields, stable doors and fencing in advance and remove protruding objects that could cause injury. Use the setting in which each animal is normally most settled – changing an established routine at the last moment may add stress. Keep animals with familiar companions where safe and ensure someone experienced can monitor them from a sensible distance. Inform nearby organisers or neighbours that animals are present and ask for notice of planned displays.
Calming aids and when to see a vet
There are a number of calming aids available through normal retail outlets, but they vary in suitability and efficacy – speak to your veterinary practice to discuss options. Prescription-only medications are also available for severe cases, but these require a consultation with your vet, and medications with a sedative effect should ideally be a last resort.
The golden rule: stay calm
Animals pick up very easily on anxiety – if you are worried and stressed, they will certainly feel it. The most effective approach combines prevention, secure surroundings, the freedom to choose a safe hiding place, and calm human support.
By preparing early and tailoring care to the individual animal, owners can make firework season safer and considerably less distressing for everyone.
