As a pet owner, the imminent arrival of Bonfire Night and fireworks season can fill you with dread. There’s nothing worse than feeling powerless when your cat or dog is in distress. Luckily, over the years we’ve learnt that there are ways you can prepare for fireworks night – one of them being creating a pet den: a safe space where your pet can retreat and feel more secure from the outside world.
How to make a fireworks den for your cat or dog
Before we get started: know that you won’t actually need to ‘build’ anything. Making a pet den is about bringing a few familiar items together in a quiet, tucked-away spot. No DIY knowledge required!
1. Find a quiet spot in your home, somewhere your pet would likely be drawn to retreat to. Windowless places, like a small bathroom, can be a great choice. Under a desk or inside a wardrobe can work too.
2. Use a travel crate or cardboard box as the ‘frame’ for their den. If the space is already enclosed, such as a cupboard, you may not need one.
3. Drape a blanket or sheet over the den. This can help muffle some of the light and noise. Then, pop their bed, favourite blanket or a soft pillow inside to make it cosy.
4. Throw in some comfort items like a toy, a treat or two, and a personal item with your scent on it, such as a t-shirt or scarf, for an added sense of safety. These are the final touches to make the den extra inviting.
5. Give your pet access to water (fear and stress can make some pets more thirsty). If they get very anxious, you may want to line the den with puppy pads to help manage any accidents.
Can pheromones help calm my pet?
Pheromone-based products like the Adaptil (for dogs) and Feliway (for cats) may also help provide a sense of calm, as these replicate pheromones released by mother dogs and cats to help their young feel safe. They’re available as plug-in diffusers, collars and sprays, and depending on the format, it’s recommended that you start introducing them anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks in advance. If you go for a diffuser, place it in the room where your pet spends most of their time.
When should you set up a fireworks den?
Give your pet a chance to familiarise themselves with their pet den a couple of weeks ahead of Bonfire Night, too. That way, they can take their time exploring it and hopefully decide it’s the perfect hideout when the bangs begin.
We’ve compiled more tips on how to help your pet cope in our guide about fireworks and pets. As fellow pet parents, we’re rooting for you!
