Start preparing for thunderstorms and fireworks now

 
summer cat activities

For pets who are afraid of fireworks and thunderstorms, summer can be a tough season. Luckily, their fear doesn’t have to be forever! With some advance preparation and day-of support, you can help your pet stay happy and relaxed through all the crash-bangs of summer.

 

Advance preparation

  • Set up a safe space. Create a “happy place” where your pet can retreat to and feel secure. Choose a spot in your house where your pet usually likes to relax that will also buffer the sights and sounds of the thunderstorms or fireworks, such as a walk-in closet or a room with blackout curtains. Fill it with comfortable beds and some favorite toys, and make it extra awesome with playtime or treats.
     
  • Start behavioral training. Desensitizing your pet to loud sounds is key to helping them overcome their fear. This can be done by playing thunderstorm or firework noise very quietly and only for a minute or two at a time, all while giving them plenty of love and treats to help them create positive associations with the sound. Over time, you can gradually increase the volume and length of time you play the sound, so your pet can keep growing more comfortable with it.
     
  • Pick out calming supplements and aids. Several natural supplements designed to reduce anxiety are available for pets. Other aids, like pheromones or ThunderShirts, can also help create a sense of calm. 
     
  • Visit your vet. If your pet has had severe reactions to noise in the past, then it’s best to share your concerns with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can offer personalized training advice and may recommend anti-anxiety medications as well.

Day-of support

  • Give supplements or medications early. If you are planning to give your pet supplements or anti-anxiety medications, starting these before the crashes and bangs begin may help relax your pet and reduce their reactivity.
     
  • Encourage your pet to go to the safe space. With repetition, your pet will learn to seek out their happy place on their own.
     
  • Drown out the sound. Leave music playing in the safe space to help block the booms. Closing all the windows and doors in the house will help as well.
     
  • Provide plenty of distraction. Pull out your pet’s favorite toys or stuff toys with treats to give your pet something fun to focus on.
     
  • Don’t make a fuss. When your pet is distressed, it’s hard to ignore the urge to comfort them, but excessive comforting may reward your pet’s behavior or (even worse!) validate their fears. Besides a few calm pats, carry on as if nothing special is happening. Your pet will be reassured by your worry-free demeanor.
     

Browse our veterinarian-curated selection of calming supplements here. >>