Fireworks might be a highlight of the autumn calendar, but for our pets, the sudden bangs, bright flashes and unfamiliar noises can be anything but enjoyable.
With Bonfire Night, Diwali celebrations and New Year's Eve bringing fireworks throughout the colder months, it's worth thinking about how we can make things a little easier for our four-legged companions.
From creating a comforting space at home to introducing calming routines, here are some simple, practical ways to help dogs and cats feel more secure during fireworks season.
How can I keep my pet calm during fireworks?
To help dogs and cats stay calm during fireworks, create a quiet, comfortable hiding space, close curtains to reduce flashes and play familiar background noise. Walk dogs before dark, keep cats indoors and offer enrichment activities such as lick mats or puzzle feeders. Some pets may benefit from calming supplements, while those experiencing severe anxiety should receive veterinary support.
1. Create a safe space they can retreat to
When pets feel frightened, their natural instinct is often to seek somewhere quiet and enclosed.
For dogs, this might be a cosy bed tucked into a quiet corner, a covered crate they're already comfortable using, or a favourite spot behind the sofa.
Cats often prefer enclosed hideaways, covered beds or somewhere elevated where they can observe their surroundings without feeling exposed.
Add familiar blankets, favourite toys and bedding that smells like home. Most importantly, let your pet choose where they feel safest. Never force them into a hiding place or pull them out.
The Reva Edit: Explore our cosy cat hideaways and comforting beds, including the zeze Milk Carton Cat House.
2. Keep the outside world outside
A few small adjustments can make a noticeable difference when fireworks begin.
Close windows and curtains before dark to reduce noise and block sudden flashes. Keep the lights on and introduce familiar background sounds, such as the television or gentle music, to help soften the contrast between silence and unexpected bangs.
Classic FM's Pet Classics is designed specifically for evenings when pets may be unsettled by fireworks.
For cats that usually spend time outdoors, make sure they're safely inside before fireworks begin, with access to food, water and a litter tray.
For dogs, plan walks earlier in the day, ideally before dusk. If they need to go outside later, keep them on a lead and wait for a quieter moment.
3. Give them something positive to focus on
Enrichment can be a useful way to redirect attention and encourage natural behaviours.
For dogs, try spreading their favourite dog-safe food (Reva's pick) across a lick mat, offering a stuffed enrichment toy or scattering treats in a snuffle mat.
Licking, sniffing and foraging can provide an engaging, rewarding activity that helps some dogs settle.
For cats, consider puzzle feeders, gentle interactive play or familiar toys. Catnip and silvervine can encourage play in some cats, although others may become more excited rather than relaxed.
The key is to offer activities your pet already enjoys. If they're too frightened to engage, don't force it.
4. Consider calming treats and supplements
Some pets may benefit from additional support, particularly those who become unsettled by changes in routine, unfamiliar visitors or loud noises.
Calming treats and supplements often contain ingredients such as chamomile, hemp oil, ashwagandha or other botanicals traditionally associated with relaxation.
At reva, we've curated a selection of calming products, including Gizzls' natural calming dog and cat treats, Sweet Dreams biscuits and Scrumpf calming supplements.
It's worth remembering that not every product works for every pet. Evidence for many botanical ingredients remains limited, and supplements shouldn't replace veterinary support for significant anxiety.
Always check the ingredients, suitability and recommended feeding instructions. Some products are designed for daily use rather than immediate relief, so planning ahead matters.
Explore the collection: Calming & Anxiety Support for Pets
5. Let your pet decide how much reassurance they need
Some dogs want to curl up beside you when they're frightened. Others prefer to hide somewhere quiet. Cats may disappear beneath the bed until everything settles down.
All of these responses are normal.
If your pet seeks affection, it's absolutely fine to comfort them. Reassuring a frightened animal doesn't reinforce their fear.
Equally, if they'd rather be left alone, respect their space while keeping an eye on them.
Try to maintain your usual routine, avoid reacting dramatically to loud noises and never punish your pet for barking, hiding or showing signs of distress.
6. Recognise the less obvious signs of stress
Not every frightened pet will bark, whine or run for cover.
Dogs may show more subtle signs, including excessive panting, lip licking, yawning, pacing, trembling or refusing food.
Cats may become unusually withdrawn, hide for extended periods, groom excessively or change their eating and toileting habits.
Learning to recognise these signals can help you respond before your pet becomes overwhelmed.
If your dog or cat experiences severe fear, or their anxiety appears to be getting worse, speak with your vet. They can recommend appropriate support, including behavioural treatment or prescription medication where necessary.
7. Start preparing for next time
One of the most effective long-term approaches to firework anxiety is gradual desensitisation.
This involves introducing recorded firework sounds at a very low volume when your pet is relaxed, then gradually building familiarity over time.
The process should take place over weeks or months, always at a level your pet is comfortable with. If they show signs of distress, stop and seek guidance from a qualified behaviourist.
You can also establish positive daily routines through enrichment, comfortable resting spaces and consistent feeding and exercise schedules.
Preparation is particularly valuable for pets who struggle with fireworks every year.
A little more calm, all year round
Fireworks might be seasonal, but helping pets feel safe and comfortable is something we can think about throughout the year.
Whether it's a cosy place to retreat, a favourite enrichment activity or a carefully selected calming treat, small adjustments can help make unfamiliar moments feel more manageable.
At Reva, we believe thoughtful pet care starts with understanding what our animals really need.
Discover our curated collection of Calming & Anxiety Support for Pets, with natural treats, supplements and comforting essentials for dogs and cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I comfort my dog when they're scared of fireworks?
Yes. Comforting a frightened dog won't reinforce their fear. If your dog seeks reassurance, offer gentle affection and stay close. If they prefer to hide, give them space.
Do calming treats work for fireworks anxiety?
Some calming treats and supplements may support relaxation, but results vary depending on the ingredients and individual pet. Evidence for many natural calming ingredients is limited, so speak with your vet if your pet experiences significant anxiety.
Should I leave the TV or radio on for my pet during fireworks?
Familiar background noise can help mask sudden sounds. Keep the volume at a comfortable level and choose something your pet is already accustomed to hearing.
How do I calm a cat during fireworks?
Keep your cat indoors, provide access to enclosed hiding spaces, close curtains and maintain their usual routine. Avoid forcing them out of hiding, and ensure food, water and a litter tray remain accessible.
How early should I prepare my dog for fireworks?
Ideally, begin preparing several weeks or months in advance. Gradual sound desensitisation and positive reinforcement can help some dogs become more comfortable with firework noises over time.
About Reva
Reva is an independent UK pet marketplace curating thoughtfully selected products for dogs and cats. Our Journal shares practical advice and product discoveries to help pet owners make more informed choices.
Further reading: RSPCA, PDSA and Cats Protection provide additional guidance on supporting pets during fireworks.