With any major celebration, the noise of firecrackers fills the streets. However, not everyone awaits these dates with the same enthusiasm. For pet owners, it can turn into awkward evenings because many cats and dogs get nervous. Reactions can range from the mildest, such as excessive panting and restlessness, to more serious ones that put their physical integrity at risk with flight behaviors. The experts at the Tucan veterinary center explain to us what we can do.
restlessness symptoms
Dogs and cats can show their restlessness, in addition to reacting to the sound stimulus with barking/meowing or sobbing and running away, moving around the house from one place to another and/or breathing excessively and at high speed. Yawning can also be another way or that they barely react to our call and stand still, as if blocked and with a lost look.
In addition, they will also try to hide in any corner of the house until they feel safe to go out. Other symptoms that dogs and cats may present, since each animal reacts in its own way, are: tremors, salivation, tachycardia, intense vocalizations and urination or defecation.
General tips
Cover the windows to help your pet does not perceive the flashes of the firecrackers and try to muffle the noise as well as possible by covering the gaps that may have the frames of your windows or under the doors.
Then play a soothing sound that “covers” the thunderous sound, like classical music. Remember to close all openings in the house that may allow your pet to escape. The desire to flee is one of the most common reactions and you could get lost or have an accident.
Tire your pet out during the day with games and rides (in the case of dogs). This will help when the fireworks start at night to more easily ignore the noises it causes. Even if you think your pet is getting too upset, consult your vet to prescribe a tranquilizer.
Tips for dogs
Although it may seem like common sense, it is worth remembering that for You shouldn’t take him out of the house for any reason. during the fireworks launch.
However, don’t tie him up or lock him up in a confined space, either, even if you have to go outside (which is not recommended at such times). Better, create a space for him. It can be his bed or another one in which you put him toys and things to play with. Also, the closer that space is to you, the better.
A way of channel anxiety Most of the dogs chew something so give him a snack that will keep him busy for a long time. You can also try the method Tellington Touch, which is very effective in some cases. This technique consists of wrapping your dog with a cloth and in a specific way. It generates a sense of security that, added to a few caresses, can help you get over the bad drink.
tips for cats
Cats tend to feel more secure in places with little light, so you can place a box on its side with a blanket inside for it to shelter there.
On the other hand, the synthetic hormones and feline pheromones that you can buy at any veterinary store can make the evening more bearable for your cat. Yes indeed, check with your vet beforehand.
FELIWAY Classic – Anti-stress for cats – Transport, Travel – Spray (20 ml)