How to Prepare Your Pets & Farm Animals for Firework Season

How to Prepare Your Pets & Farm Animals for Firework Season

Fireworks may be exciting for us, but for many animals, the loud bangs, flashes and unexpected noises can be frightening and stressful.

Dogs and cats can become anxious or try to escape, while horses and livestock may panic and injure themselves or break through fencing.

The good news is that preparing in advance can make firework season much easier for your animals.

In this guide, we'll cover practical ways to prepare your dogs, cats, horses and farm animals before and during firework season.

Preparing Your Dog for Fireworks

Dogs can show fear in different ways. Look out for panting, trembling, pacing, hiding, barking, whining, clinginess or attempts to escape.

Before the fireworks:

  • Create a comfortable, familiar safe space where your dog can retreat.
  • Exercise them during daylight hours before fireworks are expected.
  • Make sure their microchip and contact details are up to date.
  • Close curtains and windows to reduce flashes and noise.
  • Have the TV, radio or familiar music playing to help mask outside sounds.
  • Introduce any calming products before firework night so your dog is familiar with them.

When the fireworks start, let your dog hide if they want to and don't punish fearful behaviour. Stay calm and reassure them if they seek you out.

Preparing Your Cat for Fireworks

Cats often respond to fireworks by hiding or becoming unusually quiet.

To help them feel secure:

  • Keep cats indoors once fireworks are expected.
  • Close windows, doors and cat flaps.
  • Provide plenty of safe hiding places such as boxes, covered beds or familiar spaces.
  • Make sure they have access to a litter tray.
  • Keep their normal feeding and bedtime routine where possible.

Don't force your cat out of hiding — allow them to come out when they're ready.

We stock a range of calming supplements and products to help your cats & dogs feel as calm as possible during this stressful season.

Shop our Firework Season Calming Products

What About Particularly Anxious Pets?

For some dogs and cats, calming products and environmental changes may not provide enough support.

If your pet becomes severely distressed during fireworks, speak to your vet before firework season. They can assess your pet and advise on the most appropriate options.

Farm Vet Supplies also supplies prescription calming medication for pets who may need something stronger.

A valid prescription from your veterinary practice is required.

If your pet has struggled with fireworks previously, don't wait until the first display — speak to your vet in advance.

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Fireworks & Horses

Horses can become extremely frightened by sudden bangs and flashes, potentially causing them to panic or injure themselves.

Before firework season:

  • Check fencing, gates and stable doors.
  • Remove anything that could cause injury if your horse becomes frightened.
  • Find out when local displays are taking place.
  • Speak to neighbours if fireworks are planned nearby.
  • Keep their routine as familiar as possible.
  • Make sure someone experienced can check them during periods when fireworks are expected.

There isn't one solution that suits every horse, so consider where your individual horse is safest and most settled.

Fireworks & Farm Livestock

Cattle, sheep, goats and other livestock can also become frightened by fireworks.

Before fireworks:

  1. Check fences and gates
  2. Check shelters and housing
  3. Remove potential hazards
  4. Find out about nearby displays
  5. Speak to neighbours where appropriate
  6. Arrange for animals to be checked during displays
  7. Make sure emergency contact details are up to date

Afterwards, check fields and animal areas for firework debris before allowing animals access.

Don't Wait Until Bonfire Night

Fireworks can take place for several weeks around Bonfire Night, as well as during other celebrations throughout the year.

If your pet or livestock has struggled in previous years, start preparing early.

Create safe spaces, check fencing and housing, stock up on calming support and speak to your vet if your pet experiences severe anxiety.

A little preparation can make a big difference. 

Important information

This article provides general guidance and isn't a substitute for veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your pet or livestock, contact your veterinary practice.

Posted by Farm Vet Supplies
7th September 2026

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