Fireworks – Helping Pets Stay Calm

Bright lights and big bangs might be fun for us, but for pets, fireworks can be pretty terrifying. Many dogs and cats suffer anxiety and stress during Bonfire Night, Halloween and Diwali. Preparing in advance can make all the difference.

Why pets react badly to fireworks

Loud, unpredictable noises and flashing lights trigger fear responses – especially in pets with sensitive hearing. Dogs may bark or tremble, cats might hide for hours, and small pets can even injure themselves trying to escape.

Fireworks can be terrifying for pets because their senses, especially hearing, are far more acute than ours. Dogs, for instance, can hear sounds up to four times farther away than humans and can detect frequencies we can’t perceive. This means the loud bangs and high-pitched whistles of fireworks aren’t just loud to them, they’re overwhelming.

Fight-or-flight is not fun but it is normal

Since fireworks are often accompanied by bright flashes of light and strong smells from the smoke, it can trigger a fight-or-flight response. This is a deep, instinctive reaction controlled by the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for processing fear. When activated, it floods the body with stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, priming the animal to run, hide or lash out. Pets don’t know it’s a celebration. To them, it can feel like danger is all around and there’s no way to escape it.

Dogs might bark, tremble, pant excessively, pace or try to escape. Cats, being more solitary and stealthy by nature, often bolt to a hiding place and may not reappear for hours.

What you can do to help them

Early desensitisation or noise training can help them cope, but with fireworks season upon us now, the best thing you can do is be prepared, so you can stay calm and be ready to reassure them if they become distressed:

• Create a safe den with blankets, bedding, and favourite toys

• Close windows and curtains to block light and muffle sound

• Play background music or white noise to help mask fireworks

• Keep cats indoors and walk dogs early in the evening

• Microchip check – make sure your details are up to date, just in case

Calming aids

Some pets benefit from pheromone diffusers, calming supplements or even short-term medication. We’re happy to advise on what’s suitable. Please feel free to call us on 01689 477747 or book an appointment online.

Quick tips:

• Start preparing early if you can

• Create a calm, secure environment

• Use calming aids if needed

• Don’t punish fearful behaviour

• Stay calm and confident so you can reassure them that they are safe