Helping Dogs and Cats Cope With Fireworks

Fireworks season can be a worrying time for many pets. Loud bangs, flashes, unfamiliar smells and changes in routine can all be frightening, especially because dogs and cats do not understand what is happening.

Some pets hide, shake or try to escape. Others bark, pace, pant, drool, become clingy, refuse food or toilet indoors. Cats may disappear under furniture or avoid coming inside if they are startled outdoors.

A little bit of planning can make fireworks season much easier for pets and their families.

Prepare before fireworks start

Try to plan ahead rather than waiting until fireworks are already happening. If your pet has struggled in previous years, speak to your vet early. Some pets may benefit from calming support, behaviour advice or medication, but these options are usually most effective when discussed in advance.

Make sure your pet’s microchip details are up to date, just in case they are startled and escape. Dogs should also wear a collar and ID tag when out in public.

Create a safe space

Give your pet somewhere quiet and comfortable to retreat to. This might be a crate, covered bed, quiet room, space under furniture or a favourite corner of the house.

Let your pet choose whether to use it. Try not to force them in or pull them out, as this can make them feel more stressed.

Add familiar bedding, toys and water. Closing curtains or blinds can help reduce flashes, and playing gentle background noise or the television can help soften sudden sounds.

Keep cats indoors

If fireworks are expected, keep cats indoors before it gets dark. Make sure windows, cat flaps and doors are secure.

Provide litter trays, food, water and hiding places inside so your cat does not need to go out. If your cat chooses to hide, leave them where they feel safe and check on them quietly.

Outdoor cats may need a few days to get used to an adjusted routine. If you know about planned fireworks, start a few days ahead so they have time to adapt.

Walk dogs earlier in the day

Walk dogs during daylight hours before fireworks are likely to start. Keep them on a lead, even if they are normally reliable off lead. A sudden bang can make even a confident dog bolt.

Once fireworks begin, avoid taking your dog outside unless absolutely necessary. If they need a toilet break, keep it short, calm and secure.

Stay calm and reassuring

Your pet will often look to you for cues. Stay calm and behave as normally as possible.

It is absolutely fine to comfort your pet if they seek reassurance. Calmly supporting them does not “reward fear.” Some pets want closeness, while others prefer to hide. Let them choose.

Avoid punishing fearful behaviour such as barking, shaking, hiding or toileting indoors. These are signs that your pet is struggling, not being difficult. Be patient with them.

Use enrichment carefully

Some pets benefit from a chew, lick mat, puzzle feeder or favourite toy before fireworks begin. These can help create a positive distraction if your pet is still relaxed enough to engage.

However, if your pet is too frightened to eat or play, do not force it. Focus instead on helping them feel safe.

Watch for severe fear

Signs of significant distress include frantic pacing, shaking, panting, drooling, trying to escape, destructive behaviour, refusing food, toileting indoors, hiding for long periods or seeming unable to settle.

If your pet becomes very distressed during fireworks, contact your vet for advice. There may be ways to support them more effectively in future.

Think long term

Fireworks fears can become worse over time if pets repeatedly have frightening experiences.

Sound desensitisation, behaviour support and carefully planned training can help some pets cope better, but this should be done gradually and well before fireworks season. Once the season is over, it may be worth discussing a longer-term plan with your vet or a qualified behaviourist.

Need help?

If your dog or cat becomes distressed by fireworks, we are happy to help. Planning early can make a big difference, especially for pets who have struggled before – talk to us in you're concerned about your pet.

Get in touch with us today, or book an appointment as soon as possible if you would like advice before fireworks season begins.

Quick tips

• Speak to your vet early if your pet has struggled before.

• Check microchip details are up to date.

• Walk dogs before dark.

• Keep cats indoors when fireworks are expected.

• Create a quiet, comfortable safe space.

• Close curtains and use gentle background noise.

• Comfort your pet calmly if they seek reassurance.