10/10/2026
Fireworks season: helping your pet feel safe 🎆
As the evenings draw in, fireworks become a regular part of autumn, not just on Bonfire Night but for weeks around it, and again at Diwali and New Year. For many dogs and cats, the sudden bangs and flashes can be genuinely frightening.
Noise fear is common, and it’s not something pets simply “get over”. The good news is that a little planning can make a real difference.
Signs your pet may be struggling:
Trembling, panting or pacing
Hiding, or seeking you out more than usual
Drooling or lip-licking
Toilet accidents indoors
Trying to escape, or destructive behaviour
In cats: hiding for long periods, going off food, or toileting outside the litter tray
Simple ways to help:
Create a safe den. A quiet, covered space with familiar bedding, where your pet can retreat and won’t be disturbed
Walk dogs in daylight and bring cats indoors before dusk
Close curtains and windows, and use the TV or music to soften outside noise
Feed a little earlier in the evening, before fireworks usually start
Comfort them if they come to you. Reassuring a frightened pet won’t make their fear worse. Please never punish fearful behaviour
Check microchip details are up to date, in case a frightened pet escapes
Speak to us early
If your pet finds fireworks very distressing, please get in touch now rather than waiting. There are options we can talk through, including longer-term behaviour support and, where appropriate, medication. Some treatments work best when started in advance, and every pet needs to be assessed individually, so please don’t give any medication without veterinary advice.
It’s also worth knowing that a new or worsening fear of noises, particularly in older pets, can sometimes be linked to pain, so a check-up can be helpful.
We’re here if you need us
If your pet is injured or escapes during the fireworks, we provide our own out-of-hours care. Day or night, call us on 01636 351 115.
