Helping Small Pets cope with Fireworks

Small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats, and mice are very sensitive to loud noises and stress. Luckily, there are plenty of little things you can do at home to keep them calm throughout firework season. 

If they live outdoors, bring them inside for firework season/when fireworks are going off. Try to put them in a cool room so they aren’t stressed by the sudden change in temperature. If this isn’t possible, move their hutch into a car-free garage or shed. If the hutch can’t be moved indoors, turn it to face the wall at night, or partly cover it with blankets to block out as much light and sound as possible whilst still making sure there is good ventilation. 

Give them plenty of hiding places so they feel safe – cardboard boxes or tubes work well, just make sure they have more than one entrance/exit so they don’t feel trapped. 

Give them lots of extra bedding to help keep noise out and provide a hiding place. 

Close curtains before it gets dark and leave the lights on to hide the flashes. 

Play some music to help drown out the noises from fireworks. Classical can work well, or something with a deep bass to help cover up any bangs – just make sure it’s at a volume your small pet is comfortable with i.e. not too loud! 

Keep them occupied with their favourite treat or toy. 

Keep bonded pairs/groups together so they feel safe and secure. 

Never light a bonfire/sparklers/set off fireworks anywhere near them - the sight, smell and noise will be terrifying, and smoke can cause breathing problems. If your neighbours are having a bonfire/fireworks bring your pets inside. 

For further advice please give us a call or visit Small Pets and Fireworks – PDSA