Keeping pets calm through Diwali

Diwali is one of the happiest times of the year for us, and one of the hardest for many pets. Dogs and cats hear far better than we do, so firecrackers that are loud to us can be terrifying to them. A little planning a week ahead makes a big difference.

Start preparing a week early

• Update ID. Make sure the collar fits and the ID tag has your current phone number. Scared pets bolt, and more pets go missing around Diwali than at almost any other time.
• Talk to your vet if your pet has panicked in previous years. They can advise on options well before the festival.
• Practise the den (below) so it's familiar before the noise starts.

Set up a safe den

Choose a quiet inner room, ideally one without big windows facing the street.

• Put their bed, a favourite toy and a blanket that smells like you.
• For cats, add a covered hiding spot, like a cardboard box on its side, plus litter, food and water in the room.
• For dogs, a crate covered with a sheet (door open) works well if they're crate-trained.
• A few sprays of a calming mist on the bedding, not on your pet, can help create a relaxing space. Our Calming Environment Mist has a soft lavender scent. If you have cats, check the label and ask your vet before using any scented product around them.

On the noisy nights

1. Walk your dog before dark and keep the walk on a lead. Cracker noise can start early.
2. Close windows and curtains to muffle sound and hide flashes.
3. Turn on soft music, a fan or the TV to mask sudden bangs.
4. Keep doors and gates shut. Brief everyone at home, especially when guests come and go.
5. Stay calm yourself. Comfort your pet if they come to you. It won't "reward fear"; it helps them feel safe.
6. Don't force them out of hiding. Let cats stay under the bed if that's where they feel safe.

Things to avoid

• Never take your pet to watch fireworks.
• Keep pets away from diyas, candles and rangoli colours.
• Keep sweets, especially chocolate and anything with xylitol, out of reach.
• Don't leave pets alone outside or on balconies.

Signs your pet is stressed

Panting, pacing, trembling, hiding, drooling, barking, trying to escape, or accidents indoors. If your pet is very distressed, or the reaction is getting worse each year, talk to your vet. Our guide to dogs scared of loud noises has training ideas you can start after the festival, so next year is easier.

The morning after

Before walks, check the road and park for burnt cracker remains. They can burn paws and are harmful if eaten. Wipe paws after the walk; our summer paw care routine works year-round.