Coping With Pets During Firework Night & Bonfire Season

By Dr James Adams MRCVS

Bonfire Night (5 November) is magical for us, but not always for our pets. Sudden bangs and flashes can be frightening, and even the calmest animals can panic. Here’s my vet-approved plan to help your pets feel safe and settled.

The week of Bonfire Night: set up for success

• ID & microchip: Make sure your pet’s microchip details and collar tag are up to date—just in case they bolt.

• Create a safe “den”: A cosy crate or corner with blankets, a favourite bed, and a long-lasting chew. Partially cover with a blanket to muffle sound (leave good airflow).

• Soundproof the room: Close windows, draw curtains, and block draughts. Play steady white noise, radio talk, or TV.

• Pheromones help: Plug-in diffusers (e.g., Adaptil for dogs, Feliway for cats) can take the edge off for some pets—start 2–3 days ahead.

• Practice calm: Scatter-feeding, lick mats and puzzle toys build a positive association with that safe room.

• Medication (case-by-case): If your pet struggles, speak to your vet early. Modern options (e.g., dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel, sometimes imepitoin for noise fear) may be appropriate. We generally avoid old-fashioned sedatives that don’t reduce anxiety.

On the day (and evenings around it)

• Exercise and toilet early: Give dogs a good walk before dusk; shut cat flaps before dark and provide extra indoor litter trays.

• Stick to routine: Feed a little earlier; keep evening calm and predictable.

• Stay positive: Keep lights on, play background sound, offer chews/lick mats. Reward calm—don’t punish fear.

• Don’t force it: If your pet chooses to hide, let them. Sit nearby and speak softly.

• Doors & gates secure: Panic can make even well-trained pets dart out.

For cats & small furries

• Cats: Provide multiple hideaways (cardboard box + blanket works), extra litter trays, and try not to pick them up if they’re anxious—they may scratch to escape.

• Rabbits/guinea pigs: Move hutches into a quiet shed/garage if you can. Add deep bedding to burrow, partly cover the hutch, but ensure ventilation and fresh water.

Horses and field-kept animals

• Plan ahead: Let neighbours know you have horses; ask about display times.

• Stable safely: Bring in before dark if that’s your normal routine, remove hazards, and consider ear covers if tolerated.

Bonfire safety (for wildlife too)

• Check piles before lighting—hedgehogs love to nest in wood stacks.

• Keep pets well away from flames, ash and sparklers; store fireworks securely.

When to contact your vet

• Your pet shakes, salivates, won’t settle, vocalises, or panics despite the above.

• You’d like to discuss behaviour plans (desensitisation/sound therapy) for the long term.

With a little planning, most pets can get through firework season far more comfortably. If you need tailored advice—or think medication might help—get in touch and we’ll guide you.