5 ways to keep your pets calm this Bonfire Weekend
“Remember remember, the 5th November”… if you have a nervous pet, you may find yourself dreading the bonfire night festivities. The loud bangs can sometimes continue for weeks either side of the celebration, and whilst us humans might enjoy the gathering to watch the skies light up, they can leave our pets terrified.
However, have no fear - The Stamford Catsitter team are here with 5 tips to keep your anxious furry friends happy and relaxed this Guy Fawkes Night!
Tip #1 - Holly
Drown it out
“Depending on how near you are to the fireworks, you might not be able to conceal the noises completely. However, I would recommend closing all of the curtains/blinds and turning on some ambient background noise, such as the TV or radio.
Classic FM are back again this year with their annual Pet Classics radio shows, from 5-9pm on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th November. You could also consider a white noise machine to muffle out some of the bangs.
I love using my Alexa to talk to my pets, so if you have to pop out over Bonfire Weekend they can be reassured by the sound of your voice! Check out some of the other ways your Alexa can help to calm your pets here.”
Holly
Classic FM’s Pet Classics show
Tip #2 - Katie
Create a space of calm
“I love using calming sprays and diffusers to ease my cats’ stress. Feliway sell a variety of plug in diffusers and they work by replicating the natural pheromones produced by cats and diffusing them into the surrounding environment,; helping your cat feel safe and secure. For dogs, try this pheromone diffuser from Adaptil.
Another option is this Pet Remedy All In One Calming Kit. It includes a spray, diffuser and calming wipes. Spray the solution onto bedding, blankets or pet bandanas and use the wipes on your pet’s muzzle, under their chin or behind their ears!”
Katie
Many of us will enjoy festive firework displays this year, but we must consider how our fur babies will be feeling at home
Tip #3 - Olga
Distract and play!
“Wood Green Animal Shelter have created these amazing calming boxes for cats, dogs and small pets too. The boxes contain expertly selected and recommended calming products such as high-quality treats, enrichment items and toys.
Included in the cat box is a Lickimat - this is a great enrichment product keeps cats entertained and helps to prevent anxiety. The Kong toys are also great for mental stimulation!
If your cat favours a laser pen, these can also be great tools for distraction. I love this one available on Amazon, with 5 different shape patterns including a fish and mouse!”
Olga
Wood Green’s Cat Calming Box
Tip #4 - Charlotte
Hiding places
“Both cats and dogs often run to sheltered spots in the home to hide from scary noises. Make sure you have plenty of these available to your pet, without locking them into a crate or box (which would cause them more stress). If your dog is used to being in a crate though, you could cover it and leave it open with blankets inside. A table draped with a blanket can also form a cosy retreat!
Cats love to go under beds and to the back of wardrobes when they are scared, so make sure to leave these sorts of places open to them (and not to shut them in).
I would also advise not to shut your pets in one room, as they may hurt themselves trying to get out (especially if they are stressed.)”
Charlotte
Dogs might like to hide under blankets to feel safe
Tip #5 - Sian
Keep pets inside
“Make sure to take your dog out for a good walk during the day, and avoid taking them out after it gets dark. A good amount of exercise will also mean your dog finds it easier to relax and feel calm later on.
It would also be a good idea to keep cats inside for the evening and overnight. Consider introducing a litter tray in a quiet location, close to places your cat can hide.
Finally, I would advise ensuring your pets’ are microchipped and that the details up to date. If they get out or run away from home while fireworks are going off, they can be reunited with you much more easily if they have been chipped.”
Sian
Taking your dog out for a long walk during the day will make them more tired and relaxed in the evening
So, there you have it! Hopefully you can implement some of these techniques and products in time for your pet to have a relaxing bonfire weekend.
Here are a few more resources you can check out too:
Of course if you have to be away from home for the weekend and are worried about leaving your fur baby alone, you should book your pet some love, fuss and company in the form of visits from one of our wonderful sitters. Do that here!