Prepare your pets for Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is upon us and PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need, is urging pet owners to take action. Many of our pets’ senses are far more sensitive than ours, so loud noises and bright flashes can be overwhelming, making fireworks season a traumatic and anxious time for many of our furry friends.

In fact, the 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report revealed that 41 per cent of dog owners, and 30 per cent of cat owners, said their pets were afraid of fireworks*.

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “In 2021, in our 48 Pet Hospitals across the country, we saw 1,200 animals with firework related issues such as phobias and injuries, highlighting the real impact on our furry friends.

“But taking the time to prepare them for our celebrations can make a huge difference. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take now to help four-legged family members feel better.”

Start early
Talk to your vet if you know your pet becomes distressed with fireworks – they may be able to prescribe medication to help.

Play firework noises quietly throughout the house and reward your pet with praise and a healthy treat when they remain calm.

Gradually increase the noise but stop immediately if they begin to show any signs of distress.

Use music
Music can be really helpful to drown out the sound of bangs, but if your pet isn’t used to the tunes, that could be a surprise in itself.

Use your own playlist or try one we’ve created and play it around the house in the lead-up to Bonfire Night, then when you need the music to mask the noise, your pet should be used to it.

Keep them safe
Make sure dogs have been to the toilet and cats are indoors well before dark – start giving them their dinner a bit earlier now so they know what time to come home.

Remember, cats will need litter trays, so they can stay safely indoors.

If the worst happens and they escape from the house make sure your microchip details are up to date.

Set up a retreat
Creating a space where your pet feels safe and secure will give them somewhere to go if they feel anxious.

Setting this up as soon as possible will give your four-legged friend time to get familiar with the space ahead of any fireworks.

Choose a quiet room where they feel comfortable.

Create a ‘den’ they can retreat into that has thick blankets, bedding and pillows which can help muffle the sound of loud bangs – cats may prefer these up on high shelves.

Their favourite toys may also help take their mind off the noise.

For more advice on how to prepare for Bonfire Night with your pets, visit https://www.pdsa.org.uk/fireworksready