03 / 11 / 2025
Bonfire Night can be magical for people, but frightening and confusing for our pets. Sudden loud bangs, flashes of light and the unfamiliar smell of smoke can trigger anxiety and distress in animals, especially dogs and cats with sensitive hearing.
If you’re preparing for bonfire night and pets, this guide explains why animals struggle with fireworks, the dangers of bonfire celebrations, and most importantly, how to keep them calm and safe.
Why do pets dislike fireworks?
Unlike us, pets don’t understand that fireworks are temporary or harmless. They process them as signs of danger.
Why dogs and fireworks don’t mix
Many owners ask: “Why do dogs hate fireworks?” The answer is rooted in biology. Dogs hear at a much higher frequency than humans, and the unpredictable bangs can feel overwhelming. Your dog also can’t see the source of the noise, so they interpret it as a threat from all directions. This can lead to frightened dogs, pacing, shaking, panting or trying to hide.
Why cats and fireworks are an issue too
Cats may appear more independent, but they can be just as anxious. Sudden sounds can trigger their flight instinct. Stress signs you can spot in cats on bonfire night can include hiding for long periods, refusing to eat, or trying to escape outdoors.
The hidden dangers of bonfire night for pets
Alongside noise anxiety, there are physical dangers pet owners may not realise.
Fireworks debris
Spent firework shells or sticks can land in gardens, posing choking hazards or causing burns if still warm.Open bonfires
Wild animals such as hedgehogs often shelter inside bonfire piles before they’re lit. Pets can also wander too close when investigating smells or embers.
Escaping and running away
During noisy fireworks displays, terrified dogs and anxious cats may bolt, dig under fences or break leads trying to escape.
How do you keep pets safe on bonfire night?
Here are practical steps to prepare before the celebrations begin.
1. Create a safe indoor space
Designate a quiet room where your pet can retreat. Use blankets, toys and familiar bedding to make it feel secure. For cats, add elevated hiding spaces or covered areas.
2. Close windows and curtains
This reduces both the sound and the flashing light from outside.
3. Provide background noise
Calming audio can help mask booms and bangs. Some owners use relaxing dog sounds, playlists or a calming radio station for dogs. Others choose gentle music for dogs on bonfire night or soft classical music for cats.
Should you leave your dog alone on bonfire night?
The short answer is no. Pets feel more secure when you’re nearby. Even if your pet usually copes well, Bonfire Night anxiety can build unexpectedly. Staying close reassures them that they are safe.
Should you let cats out on bonfire night?
Ideally, cats should be kept indoors before dusk. Fireworks can start early in the evening and continue late into the night. Outdoor cats might panic and become disoriented, making them more likely to run far from home or into traffic. Bring litter trays inside early and lock cat flaps temporarily to keep them safe.
How to keep your dog calm on bonfire night
When owners search “How to calm a dog on bonfire night” or “How to keep your dog calm on bonfire night”, they’re usually looking for a mix of emotional reassurance and environmental techniques. Some helpful strategies you can use include:- Staying close and speaking calmly
- Using puzzle toys or treats to distract them
- Letting them hide if they choose — don’t force them to engage
- Playing relaxing dog sounds or soft white noise
- Offering gentle touch only if they seek comfort
Should I cuddle my dog during fireworks?
Yes, but only if they want it. Some dogs will move closer for physical reassurance, while others cope better by hiding. The key is to let them choose while staying present and supportive.
How to calm a dog during fireworks: Top tips
If you’re still wondering how to calm a dog during fireworks, here are additional options:- Try snuffle mats or licking toys to encourage soothing, repetitive behaviour
- Keep lights on indoors to reduce visual flashes
- Stay relaxed yourself — dogs mirror human stress
Should I cover my dog’s ears during fireworks?
While it can muffle sound, it’s usually impractical and may cause more stress. Instead, focus on soothing soundtracks and closing off outside noise wherever possible. Specialised noise-reducing dog snoods exist, but not all dogs tolerate them.
How to help cats on bonfire night
If you’re a cat owner and you’ve found yourself searching “How to calm your cat on bonfire night?” or “How to help cats on bonfire night?” — similar principles apply. You should:- Keep them indoors before dark
- Provide hiding spaces (even a cardboard box works)
- Give them elevated areas where they feel more in control
- Avoid picking them up unless they approach you first
- Use pheromone diffusers to promote calm
Because cats rely heavily on feeling in control of their territory, closing curtains and providing safe corners can dramatically reduce stress.
Bonfire Night and pets: Behaviour to look out for
Signs your pet is anxious can include:
Dogs
- Shaking, panting, whining
- Destructive chewing
- Clinginess or pacing
- Trying to escape
Cats
- Hiding or withdrawing
- Overgrooming
- Refusing to eat
- Scratching or vocalising
If stress levels escalate, pets may become temporarily disoriented or try to bolt, so prevention is key.
Calming pets on bonfire night: Environment setup checklist
Here’s a simple preparation checklist you can use year on year:- Safe room prepared
- Curtains closed
- ID tags up to date
- Calming audio ready
- Toys or treats available
- Walks completed before dark
This no-pressure routine builds familiarity and comfort.
Why education helps you become a better pet guardian
Understanding the behaviour of your pets on bonfire night isn’t just about coping for one evening; it’s part of becoming a confident, responsible owner. With proper training and knowledge, you can recognise anxiety cues earlier, reduce risk more effectively, and support long-term wellbeing.That’s why many owners choose to develop their understanding further through study, improving their skills and confidence as pet guardians.
Learn more with Animal Courses Direct
If you want to feel even more confident supporting your pet through stressful situations — not just on Bonfire Night but year-round — you can build your knowledge through specialist online learning.Animal Courses Direct offers flexible, recognised pet care courses that help owners deepen their understanding of animal psychology, behaviour and wellbeing. If you’re ready to go beyond basic tips and become a truly informed custodian of your pet’s welfare, explore our range of online pet care courses.
These courses help you better understand why your pets behave the way they do, how to prevent stress, and how to create a safer and more nurturing environment for them.
Check them out in more detail by clicking below!
