Fireworks & Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate Bonfire Night Survival Guide

Keep them calm this Bonfire Night with practical tips to help your four-legged family members feel safe, secure and comfortable.

For us, Bonfire Night can mean colourful skies, cosy evenings and a little seasonal excitement. But for our dogs and cats, those unexpected bangs, whistles and flashes of light can be anything but fun.

While we're enjoying the fireworks, our pets may be hiding under the bed, trembling behind the sofa or desperately searching for somewhere quiet to escape the noise.

And it's not just 5 November. Fireworks can continue for weeks around Bonfire Night, New Year's Eve and other celebrations, making this a particularly challenging time for sensitive pets.

The good news? A little preparation can make a meaningful difference.

Whether you have a noise-sensitive dog, a nervous cat or a pet who simply isn't sure what to make of all the commotion, this guide covers everything you need to know about keeping them safe and comfortable during fireworks season.

From creating a cosy safe space to managing evening routines and recognising signs of stress, here are our practical tips for a calmer Bonfire Night.

Why are dogs and cats frightened of fireworks?

Imagine hearing an unexpected explosion without knowing where it came from or why it happened. Now imagine it happening repeatedly, sometimes right outside your home.

That's a little closer to how fireworks can feel for our pets.

Dogs and cats have highly developed hearing, making sudden, loud noises particularly unsettling. Unlike us, they don't understand that fireworks are part of a celebration or that the noise will eventually stop.

The combination of unpredictable bangs, high-pitched whistles, vibrations and bright flashes can trigger a fear response.

Some pets may only appear slightly unsettled, while others experience significant distress.

And remember, every pet is different. A dog who was perfectly comfortable last year may become more sensitive over time, while a previously nervous puppy may gradually learn to cope with unfamiliar sounds.

Understanding your pet's individual behaviour is the first step towards helping them feel safer.

How to recognise signs of fireworks anxiety in dogs and cats

Not every frightened pet will visibly tremble or hide. Some display much more subtle changes in behaviour.

Knowing what to look for means you can offer reassurance before their anxiety becomes overwhelming.

Signs your pet may be stressed

  • Dogs

    • Excessive panting or drooling when they haven't been exercising.
    • Trembling, shaking or pacing around the house.
    • Whining, barking or unusual vocalisation.
    • Hiding behind furniture or trying to squeeze into small spaces.
    • Restlessness and difficulty settling.
    • Clinginess or constantly following you around.
    • Excessive yawning or lip licking.
    • Refusing food or showing less interest in their usual activities.
    • Attempting to escape or scratching at doors and windows.

  • Cats

    • Hiding under beds, behind furniture or inside cupboards.
    • Flattened ears or a tucked-away tail.
    • Dilated pupils and an alert, tense posture.
    • Excessive grooming or unusual vocalisation.
    • Pacing or repeatedly moving between hiding places.
    • Reduced appetite or reluctance to drink.
    • Toileting outside their usual litter tray.
    • Becoming unusually withdrawn or defensive.

A little reminder: Hiding is a natural coping behaviour for many cats and dogs. Don't force your pet out of their chosen hiding place. Allowing them to retreat somewhere they feel secure can help them manage a frightening situation.

10 practical ways to keep your dog calm during fireworks

You don't need an elaborate plan to make your dog more comfortable. Small changes around the home and a little forward planning can go a long way.

1. Walk your dog before it gets dark

One of the easiest ways to prepare for fireworks night is to bring your dog's main walk forward.

Aim for a good walk while it's still light, giving them plenty of opportunities to sniff, explore and enjoy some exercise.

Once fireworks are likely to start, keep your dog safely indoors.

If they need to go outside for a toilet break later, use a lead, even in a secure garden. A sudden bang can startle even the most confident dog into bolting.

2. Create a cosy, safe space

Every dog should have somewhere they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.

Choose a quiet area of your home, ideally away from windows and external noise.

Make it inviting with:

  • Their favourite comfortable bed or blanket.
  • Familiar toys.
  • Something that smells like you.
  • Fresh drinking water.
  • A favourite toy or suitable long-lasting chew, if they enjoy one.

Let your dog choose whether to use the space. Never force them to stay in it.

The aim is to create somewhere familiar and comforting that they can associate with feeling safe.

3. Close the curtains and windows

Fireworks aren't just noisy. The sudden flashes of light can also be frightening.

Close your curtains and blinds before it gets dark to reduce the flashes coming into your home.

Keep windows and external doors closed to help minimise noise and prevent accidental escapes.

If your dog has access to a garden, don't leave them outside unattended during fireworks season.

4. Put on some background noise

A little background noise can help mask some of the sudden bangs outside.

Try putting on the television, radio or some familiar music at a comfortable volume.

The key is to choose something your dog already enjoys or is used to hearing.

You don't need to turn it up excessively. The idea is to create a familiar atmosphere rather than introduce another source of noise.

5. Keep them occupied with familiar activities

If your dog is relaxed enough to participate, offer an activity they already enjoy.

For example:

  • A favourite soft toy.
  • A simple indoor scent game.
  • A food puzzle they've used before.
  • A suitable natural chew.
  • A familiar training activity using positive reinforcement.

Chewing and sniffing are enjoyable activities for many dogs and can provide gentle enrichment.

However, don't force activities if your dog is too frightened to engage. Their comfort and sense of security should always come first.

6. Stay close and offer reassurance

Your presence can make a real difference.

Try to remain calm and carry on with your normal evening routine. If your dog seeks affection, offer a cuddle or gentle strokes.

If they'd rather hide in their safe space, that's absolutely fine too.

There's no need to ignore a frightened dog or withhold affection. Reassuring your pet when they seek comfort won't spoil them.

7. Keep their routine familiar

Dogs often find comfort in predictable routines.

Try to maintain their usual mealtimes, bedtime and familiar activities wherever possible.

A sudden change in routine, combined with unfamiliar noises, can make an already unsettling evening feel even more overwhelming.

Keep things simple, relaxed and familiar.

8. Check their identification

Even if your dog is usually perfectly behaved, a sudden firework can cause them to panic and run.

Check that their microchip details are up to date and that they're wearing a collar with an identification tag.

Make sure doors, gates and garden access points are secure.

It's a small precaution that could make a huge difference.

9. Consider additional calming support

Some dogs benefit from additional support during fireworks season.

Depending on your dog's individual needs, options may include pheromone products, anxiety wraps or veterinary-prescribed medication.

These approaches aren't suitable for every dog, and their effectiveness varies.

Speak to your vet before introducing calming supplements, herbal remedies or other products, particularly if your dog takes medication or has an existing health condition.

For dogs with significant fireworks anxiety, your vet may recommend a tailored behaviour programme.

10. Don't punish frightened behaviour

This is perhaps the most important tip.

Your dog isn't being naughty when they bark, whine, hide or have an accident indoors because they're frightened.

Punishing them can make an already stressful situation worse.

Instead, remain patient, offer reassurance and allow them to cope in their own way.

How to keep your cat safe and calm during fireworks

Cats have their own ways of dealing with frightening situations. While some may seek comfort from their owners, others prefer to disappear somewhere quiet until everything settles down.

The most important thing is to give them the freedom to choose where they feel safest.

  • 1. Keep your cat indoors after dark

    If your cat normally enjoys exploring outdoors, bring their evening routine forward during fireworks season.

    Encourage them inside before it gets dark and keep them indoors until the fireworks have finished.

    Remember to:

    • Close and secure the cat flap.
    • Shut windows and external doors.
    • Provide a clean litter tray.
    • Keep food and fresh water available.

    If your cat isn't used to staying indoors, prepare their environment in advance to make the transition easier.

  • 2. Provide plenty of hiding places

    Cats naturally seek enclosed spaces when they feel threatened.

    Make sure they have access to familiar hiding spots, such as:

    • Their favourite cardboard box.
    • A covered cat bed.
    • A quiet space under the bed.
    • A familiar blanket-lined cupboard, provided it's safe and accessible.
    • A comfortable elevated resting spot.

    Don't pull your cat out of their hiding place to reassure them. Allow them to come out when they're ready.

3. Reduce noise and flashes

Close curtains and windows before fireworks begin.

Put on the television or some gentle background music if your cat is comfortable with it.

Keep the volume moderate and avoid introducing unfamiliar sounds that might cause further distress.

4. Keep food, water and litter accessible

If your cat is hiding somewhere quiet, make sure they can still access their essentials without having to venture too far.

Keep their food and water bowls in familiar, accessible places, and provide a litter tray indoors.

Monitor their eating, drinking and toileting habits.

A cat who stops eating or shows unusual urinary behaviour should be assessed by a vet. In particular, straining to urinate or being unable to pass urine requires urgent veterinary attention.

5. Let your cat decide when they want attention

Some cats will seek out their favourite human for reassurance. Others will prefer to be left alone.

Follow their lead.

Offer gentle affection if they approach you, but don't force interaction or disturb them while they're hiding.

A little patience can go a long way.

What should you feed your dog during fireworks season?

A balanced, complete diet plays an important role in your dog's overall health and wellbeing throughout the year.

During fireworks season, maintaining familiar feeding routines can also help provide a little consistency when other things around them feel unpredictable.

Here are a few simple things to keep in mind.

Stick to their usual food.

Fireworks night isn't the ideal time to introduce a completely new diet. Sudden dietary changes can upset some dogs' digestion, so it's best to keep meals familiar.

Make mealtimes enjoyable.

If your dog is comfortable enough to eat, offer their usual meal in a quiet, familiar environment.

Use treats for enrichment.

A suitable natural chew or favourite treat can provide an enjoyable activity for dogs who are relaxed enough to engage.

Keep fresh water available.

Make sure your dog always has access to clean drinking water, particularly if they're panting more than usual.

At Nutriment, we believe good nutrition starts with quality ingredients and feeding routines that work for your individual dog.

Whether you feed raw, gently cooked or a combination of suitable foods, choosing a complete and balanced diet that meets your dog's nutritional needs is an important part of supporting their everyday wellbeing.

Explore the Nutriment range to discover feeding options for your four-legged family member.

One important distinction: food and treats are not a treatment for fireworks anxiety. If your dog experiences significant fear, speak to your vet about appropriate behavioural and medical support.

What to do if your dog or cat is extremely frightened

For some pets, closing the curtains and creating a cosy hiding place simply isn't enough.

If your pet experiences severe fireworks anxiety, it's important to seek professional advice rather than relying on home remedies alone.

Speak to your vet if your pet:

  • Panics or attempts to escape whenever fireworks start.
  • Trembles, pants or vocalises excessively.
  • Refuses food or water for a prolonged period.
  • Becomes destructive or repeatedly injures themselves trying to escape.
  • Shows significant changes in their behaviour.
  • Takes a long time to recover after fireworks have stopped.

Your vet can assess your pet and discuss suitable options, including medication where appropriate.

For longer-term support, they may recommend working with an appropriately qualified clinical animal behaviourist.

Don't wait until Bonfire Night itself if you already know your pet struggles. Behaviour modification and some veterinary treatments need to be planned well in advance.

Preparing for next year's fireworks season

If your dog or cat struggles every November, the best time to start preparing is well before the next fireworks display.

For dogs, gradual sound desensitisation and counterconditioning may help them become more comfortable with fireworks noises over time.

This should be done carefully:

  1. Start with recordings of fireworks at a very low volume.
  2. Make sure your dog remains relaxed and comfortable.
  3. Gradually build up the volume over multiple short sessions, only while your dog remains comfortable.
  4. Pair the sound with something positive, such as a favourite activity or suitable treat.
  5. Stop or reduce the intensity if your dog shows signs of anxiety.

Never force your dog to listen to loud fireworks recordings or expose them to frightening sounds in the hope that they'll simply get used to them.

Cats may also benefit from a carefully planned approach to noise sensitivity, but their individual needs should guide the process.

If your pet has a history of significant fear, ask your vet or an accredited behaviourist to help develop an appropriate programme.

Your Bonfire Night pet safety checklist

Before the fireworks begin, run through this simple checklist to make sure you've covered the essentials.

  • Walk your dog before it gets dark.
  • Bring your cat indoors before evening.
  • Close windows, curtains and external doors.
  • Secure garden gates and check access points.
  • Prepare a comfortable, familiar safe space.
  • Make sure your pet has access to fresh water.
  • Keep food and litter trays accessible where needed.
  • Put on familiar background music or television.
  • Have favourite toys and suitable treats ready.
  • Check microchip details and identification.
  • Keep your evening routine as normal as possible.
  • Stay close, remain patient and follow your pet's lead.

Most importantly, remember that your pet doesn't need to enjoy fireworks to have a good evening. They simply need to feel safe, secure and loved.

A little extra love goes a long way

Bonfire Night should be an enjoyable occasion for the whole family, including the four-legged members.

Although we can't control when the fireworks start or how long they last, we can control how prepared we are to help our pets through them.

A familiar routine, a comfortable hiding place, a little reassurance and plenty of patience can make a meaningful difference.

And remember, every pet is different. What works for one dog or cat might not work for another, so take the time to understand what makes yours feel most comfortable.

From all of us at Nutriment, here's to a safe, happy and as stress-free-as-possible fireworks season.

Because they're family, too.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I calm my dog down during fireworks?

Create a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can retreat, close windows and curtains, and play familiar background music to help mask sudden bangs. Keep your dog indoors, stay nearby and offer reassurance if they seek it. A familiar routine and favourite toys or suitable treats may also help. If your dog experiences severe anxiety, speak to your vet about additional support.

2. Why is my dog suddenly scared of fireworks?

Dogs can develop noise sensitivities at any age, even if they previously appeared comfortable around fireworks. A frightening experience, changes in hearing sensitivity, ageing or other underlying factors may contribute. If your dog suddenly develops a fear of loud noises, arrange a veterinary check-up.

3. Should I comfort my dog when they're scared of fireworks?

Absolutely. If your dog seeks reassurance, it's perfectly fine to offer gentle affection, cuddles and a calm presence. You won't reinforce their fear simply by comforting them. Allow them to retreat if they prefer some space, and never punish frightened behaviour.

4. Can I walk my dog on Bonfire Night?

Yes, but plan their main walk for daylight hours, well before fireworks are likely to start. Avoid walking near fireworks displays and keep your dog on a lead. If they need a toilet break later, take them outside briefly on a lead, even if your garden is secure.

5. How do I keep my cat safe during fireworks?

Bring your cat indoors before dark and close all windows, doors and cat flaps. Provide familiar hiding places, comfortable bedding, fresh water, food and a clean litter tray. Keep curtains closed to reduce flashing lights and allow your cat to hide without being disturbed.

6. Should I let my cat hide during fireworks?

Yes. Hiding is a natural way for cats to cope with frightening situations. Provide safe, accessible hiding places and let your cat decide where they feel most comfortable. Avoid pulling them out or forcing interaction. Offer attention if they approach you.

7. Do fireworks hurt dogs' ears?

Fireworks produce loud, sudden noises that can cause significant distress and may pose a risk to hearing, particularly with close exposure. Keep your dog indoors during displays and avoid taking them to fireworks events. If you notice changes in their hearing or behaviour following exposure, contact your vet.

8. Can natural treats help calm dogs during fireworks?

A familiar, enjoyable treat or suitable natural chew can provide enrichment and a pleasant distraction for dogs who feel comfortable enough to engage. However, natural treats aren't a treatment for noise anxiety and won't necessarily stop a dog feeling frightened. Choose an appropriate treat for your dog's size and chewing habits, and always supervise them.

9. Should I give my dog calming supplements before Bonfire Night?

Some supplements are marketed to support relaxation, but their ingredients, evidence and suitability vary. Speak to your vet before introducing any calming supplement, herbal remedy or medication. This is particularly important if your dog has an existing health condition or takes other medication.

10. What should I do if my dog is shaking and panting during fireworks?

Move your dog to a quiet, secure area and reduce exposure to noise and flashing lights. Stay nearby, offer reassurance and allow them to hide if they wish. If the distress is severe, prolonged or accompanied by worrying physical symptoms, contact your vet. Never give human medication unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional.

11. How long does fireworks anxiety last in dogs?

It varies considerably. Some dogs settle shortly after the fireworks stop, while others remain unsettled for several hours or longer. Repeated exposure can also contribute to ongoing noise sensitivity. If your dog takes a long time to recover or remains anxious after fireworks season, seek veterinary advice.

12. Can I train my dog not to be scared of fireworks?

Gradual desensitisation and counterconditioning can help some dogs become more comfortable with fireworks noises. This involves introducing recordings at a very low volume and gradually building exposure while keeping your dog relaxed and pairing the sounds with positive experiences. Start well before fireworks season and seek professional guidance if your dog has significant noise anxiety.

13. When should I contact a vet about fireworks anxiety?

Contact your vet if your pet experiences severe fear, repeatedly attempts to escape, injures themselves, refuses food or shows prolonged changes in behaviour. Your vet can assess their needs and discuss appropriate behavioural support or medication if necessary. Don't wait until Bonfire Night to arrange help.