For a lot of cats and dogs, fireworks season is the hardest few weeks of the year. The bangs are sudden, loud and impossible to explain to a pet. You can't stop the fireworks — but you can change how your home feels, and that makes a real difference. Here's a simple plan.
Before the night
- Build a safe den. Set up a quiet, cosy spot away from windows — a covered calming bed, a crate with a blanket over it, or a favourite hideaway. Let your pet choose to use it; never shut them in.
- Walk dogs early. Get walks done in daylight, before any fireworks start, and keep dogs on a lead in case of a sudden bang.
- Bring cats in. Keep cats indoors after dark during firework periods, with a litter tray out and an easy hiding spot.
- Microchip check. More pets bolt and go missing around fireworks than at any other time — make sure details are up to date, just in case.
During the fireworks
- Muffle the noise. Close curtains, and put on the TV, radio or some calming music to blur the bangs.
- Give them something to do. A frozen lick mat or a snuffle mat is a brilliant distraction — the licking and sniffing are naturally soothing and redirect a nervous mind.
- Stay relaxed yourself. Act normally. If you rush to fuss over every bang, you confirm there's something to fear. Calm, matter-of-fact company reassures them most.
- Comfort if they want it — never punish. If your pet comes to you, comfort them; you can't reinforce fear with kindness. And never tell off a scared pet.
For pets who really struggle
If your dog or cat panics badly every year — shaking, hiding for hours, toileting indoors, trying to escape — speak to your vet well before the season. They can advise on desensitisation, calming aids and, where appropriate, medication. Start early: the best results come from planning weeks ahead, not on the night.
Build calm all year
Pets who have a settled den and regular calming routines cope better with big events. Our guide to calming an anxious dog covers the everyday habits that help, and our Calm & Busy Kits bring a bed plus soothing enrichment together in one box.