How to keep your pets calm and safe during fireworks
Fireworks can be a big source of anxiety for pets. While public firework displays and events can usually be planned for, not knowing when smaller, private gatherings are going to happen can make preparing for firework anxiety in dogs and cats tricky!
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Firework safety for pets
There are simple and effective steps you can take to calm pets during fireworks. From food changes to distractions to noise minimization, see our top tips on how to help pets during fireworks below.
1. Plan ahead [optional: only for territories that allow fireworks in gardens]
If you know your pet is sensitive to fireworks, it might help to ask your neighbors if they plan to hold a display in their gardens. This will prevent you from being caught out and give you time to make preparations to keep your pet calm.
2. Minimize bangs and flashes
Calming pets during celebrations that involve fireworks or other loud noises may depend on how well these can be minimized. Shut all windows and doors, draw curtains, and close blinds to muffle loud bangs and flashes.
3. Mask the noise
You can also use familiar sounds to calm pets during fireworks. Turning on the TV, radio, or even the washing machine can help cover up the noise of the fireworks.
4. Help your pet feel safe
Keep your pet indoors and avoid leaving them alone when it’s dark and the likelihood of fireworks increases. Remember that comfort is a key anxiety solution for pets, so create places where they can hide if they want to, and consider using pheromone support or a dog anxiety jacket.
5. Think about diet
Feed your cat or dog before fireworks start, as this can help to settle them. Ensure there is plenty of fresh water available, because anxious animals pant more, which will make them thirstier.
Another option is to consider a diet with nutrients that help support a calm state. The ROYAL CANIN® Calm diet for dogs and cats contains a combination of two ingredients known to support emotional balance. Pets should be given the diet at least 10 days before the anticipated event for the best results. Ask your vet for more information.
6. Change walk time
Switch your dog’s regular exercise time to avoid fireworks. Walk them in the afternoon or morning that day – and, if possible, change their usual exercise time for a few days leading up to the event to help them adjust.
7. Distract your pet
Playtime is a great antidote to fireworks and dog anxiety. Distract your pet with something they enjoy, such as grooming or playing with their favorite toy. Avoid giving them treats, as this could reinforce their anxious behavior.
8. Ensure your pet is microchipped
Pets have been known to run away during fireworks. Make sure that your pet is chipped and all their details are up to date – and to minimize the chance of your cat or dog running away, keep all windows and doors closed during the day and night of the event, as well as supervising any outside visits.
How to reduce firework anxiety in pets
Nutrition and a comfortable environment can go a long way in helping to keep your pet calm. Fireworks will often be an uncomfortable experience for cats and dogs no matter what you do, but these simple steps will make their home a safe and comforting hideaway while they happen.
FAQs
It’s important to keep your dog in an environment they feel safe in during fireworks, so avoid going out while they’re being let off. Instead, walk your dog during the morning or afternoon of any day you know fireworks are likely. If possible, it can also help to change their usual walk time a few days before any fireworks to help them adjust.
Alongside making their environment as comfortable as possible, you can give your dog a calming diet. The ROYAL CANIN® Calm diet for dogs and cats contains a combination of two ingredients known to support emotional balance. Talk to your veterinarian if you would like to know more about dietary support for anxiety.
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