How to Keep Your Pet Calm and Happy During Firework Season

Bonfire Night is a big deal for us, but for many pets it’s a right old scary time. A recent survey found 62% of Yorkshire pet owners noticed their pets get more anxious around fireworks, with a third saying this time of year is stressful for their fur babies.

If you’re a pet owner in Yorkshire here are some top tips to help your pet feel more secure during firework season, from Leigh-Anne Brown at Vets for Pets Harrogate.

Why Do Pets Get Scared of Fireworks?

You’re sitting in a quiet room and suddenly there’s a bang outside the window! That’s how many pets feel about fireworks. Dogs will start panting or pacing, cats will hide and hiss, and rabbits will stamp or stop eating. It all starts with them being more aware than usual so if you see your pet on high alert it could be the start of a fearful episode. Here’s how to help.

Top Tips

Mute the Sound

To block out the noise try turning up the TV or playing some soothing music. Pets at Home even have Spotify playlists for this very occasion—try reggae, soft rock or classical and see which one your pet likes best.

Talk to Your Vet Early

If your pet is really noise phobic speak to your vet a few days in advance. Some anxiety meds take time to kick in so planning ahead is key.

Block the Flashes

Close all your curtains and blinds to hide the flashes. If you have smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs bring them in if possible and give them lots of bedding to burrow into. A safe space can go a long way to making them feel more secure.

Stay Calm Yourself

Pets can sense our stress so stay calm. Remember to move calmly and praise them if they’re brave—it’s as reassuring for them as a warm hug.

Try Anti-Anxiety Products

For some pets treats and toys are enough. But if your pet needs more you might want to try anti-anxiety jackets, plug-in diffusers or spot-on treatments. For example Thundershirts apply gentle pressure which some pets find very calming.

• Thundershirt (£36.00): Provides a comforting, constant pressure to help your pet stay calm.
• Adaptil Diffuser (£21.20): Releases calming pheromones for dogs, perfect for the room your dog spends most of its time in.
• Feliway Diffuser (£21.20): This plug-in releases scents that are calming for cats.

Keep Cats In

Lock the cat flap during firework season and create a little den with some cosy bedding and maybe even a jumper with your scent. A safe space like this can be a big comfort when it’s loud outside.

Watch for Lingering Anxiety

Even after the fireworks stop, keep an eye on your pet for a few days. A pet that’s stopped eating or seems less active could still be anxious. If your cat, especially, is visiting the litter tray less or seems uncomfortable, contact your vet right away.

You can find Leigh-Anne and the team in the beautiful spa town of Harrogate, visit Harrogate's page on Yorkshire.com