Dens are a great way to help soothe your pet during fireworks. Most dogs and cats feel more secure when surrounded by the walls of a box or crate. You can use blankets and pillows to insulate against noise, and provide familiar objects for comfort and distraction.
Build your den now, if you haven’t already, and pop a few treats or a favourite toy in there to encourage your pet to investigate - then praise them when they do.
They should soon accept the den and use it voluntarily…as long as you’ve built an inviting and secure hideout…so, here’s how to make sure you do…
Choose the Space
You know your pet best - if there is somewhere they already use as a hideout, like behind a sofa, this is a good spot for a den. Choose a space where you will be during the evening. The living room room is
often a good choice as you can settle with them, the TV is a good distraction from noise and flashes, and it’s usually a familiar place of comfort as relaxation often happens here.
Consider Going High for Cats
Location wise, cats often feel more secure at height. Even just raised off the ground can help. If placing your cats den on a shelf, chair or table, please make sure the structure is secure so they are not at risk of falling.
Choose your Den Walls
If you have a crate for your dog then that’s a great base for a den. You are not looking to shut them in, so the door should be fixed open with string or a doorstop. For cats, an igloo bed or cardboard box can work well. Make sure it’s a sturdy one as the walls will need to withstand the weight of blankets - igloo beds are usually soft-walled so an igloo inside a box is a good option.
Insulate
Cover the box or crate in blankets and pillows to insulate from noise. If you’re using a cardboard box, make sure blankets are not so heavy that they risk collapsing the box. Pillows held in place by blankets are a great way to increase noise insulation. You could also use a layer of bubble wrap but be sure your pet won’t try to eat or
shred it.
Make it Comfy and Familiar
Remember to reserve a cosy blanket and/or cushion for Inside the den so your pet is comfy. If they have a favourite bed or blanket, try placing this inside. You may pop in an item of your clothing to help
create a familiar atmosphere. Favourite toys are also a good idea. Catnip toys are a great choice for cats.
Don’t Stress About Food and Drink
Most firework displays last a short time, and pets that feel nervous are disinclined to eat and drink, so providing food and water in the den itself is not necessary. The aim of the den is to be a cosy space
helping your pet feel surrounded- space for food and water can detract from this. Your den should be just big enough for your pet to stand up and turn around. Do keep fresh water freely available in its usual location however, and feed your pet as normal at their usual meal times. If your pet decides to stay in their den far beyond the end of the bangs (they don’t know they’re over and may feel staying hidden is safest) then you could offer them food and water in the den.
Pheromones
You can use calming pheromones to help ease anxiety for your pet. Pheromones are natural chemical messages specific to each species, used to communicate, and are undetectable to us. They are
available as plug-in diffusers or sprays. The product is called ‘Feliway’ for cats, or ‘Adaptil’ for dogs. Plug in a diffuser now, to fill the room with calming signals for your pet, or spray their den on the night.
Summary
Build your pets den as soon as possible, ahead of Bonfire Night, in a place where they feel relaxed and can be with you. Use blankets and pillows to insulate from noise. Don’t shut your pet in the den - let them come and go freely. Make sure they have a comfy bed and something familiar. Introduce your pet to the den using tasty treats and praise. Pheromones can be used in the den or room to add to the calming effect.
Best of luck with your den building. We hope your pets feel the benefit of your efforts. If you would like further advice on Bonfire Night fear prevention, and ways to help your pet, please give us a call on 01395 277775 (Exmouth) or 01395 442211 (Budleigh).