Boom, Bang, Panic! How to help pets with with noise phobias.

Did you know that up to half of all dogs in the UK may experience an overwhelming fear of loud noises at some point in their lives?^1,2 From fireworks to thunderstorms, loud sounds can trigger intense distress — fortunately, there are a variety of behavioural treatments for sound sensitivities and noise phobias in pets.

We live in a noisy world, especially at this time of year. Bonfire night (or nights!), New Year’s Eve and other winter celebrations are fast approaching. And in many rural areas, active bird scarers and gunshot sounds also become more frequent. Alongside thunder and loud vehicle noises, these are all common triggers for the development of a sound sensitivity or noise phobia.

It’s not surprising that at this time of year, I receive an increase in enquiries about managing noise phobias. With many pet guardians very concerned about how they will manage their pet’s distress.

How do you know if your pet is sound-sensitive?

Dogs of any age can start showing fearful behaviours in response to fireworks and other loud noises— with many displaying symptoms by the age of two.¹ These behaviours vary in severity and intensity— some are extreme and pose a risk of injury, while others are more subtle and easily missed.

More obvious signs include:

Some pets can begin showing anticipatory anxiety well before the noise starts. In my semi-rural practice, I’ve noticed that some dogs tend to become more anxious in early September. For these patients, the shorter days appear to signal the impending return of gunshots and fireworks.

What can you do to help?

Fortunately, several effective management and treatment options are available. The following sections provide a brief overview of some of the most helpful choices.

Environmental modifications

If your dog already shows signs of sensitivity to fireworks, some easy changes to their routine and environment can help.

In the weeks before Bonfire Night:

• Transition walks and toileting to daylight hours.
• Feed your dog earlier so they can settle before dark.
• Prepare a ‘safe haven’ — a secure, quiet space where your dog can retreat to.

If your dog already has a preferred hiding spot that they can use as a safe haven, allow them to use it. If not, create one in advance in a room with minimal outside noise and light. Ideally, choose a room with no external windows or doors; otherwise, close windows and curtains well before dusk.

If your dog is happy and willing to go into a crate, you could cover it with a thick blanket or duvet. Alternatively, you can put their bed under a table draped with covers. Select a spot that your dog finds comfortable — whether it’s with the family or somewhere quieter. Please encourage your dog to use this safe haven before any noisy events so they can become accustomed to it and feel relaxed when using it.

Please be aware that confinement can increase fear in some dogs — your dog must be able to leave their safe haven if they wish.

Make the safe haven welcoming with familiar bedding. If possible, place a speaker in the room to play white noise, brown noise, or classical music during sound events. You could also provide a long-lasting chew or a food-filled toy such as a Kong or Toppl, if that is something your dog might enjoy. And ensure they have easy access to water.

During fireworks

Your behaviour during noise events can affect how your pet responds — so try to stay calm and positive.

• Stay home with your pet if possible, and watch something light-hearted on TV to help maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
• Let your dog guide you — some seek reassurance, others prefer to be left alone.
• Encourage them to retreat to and settle in their safe haven—especially if hiding is their preferred way of coping—and ensure they cannot harm themselves.
• But don’t ignore your pet if they come to you for comfort. Gentle petting, quiet words, or body contact can help reduce distress.
• Alternatively, if your pet is willing to eat or play, use high-value treats or play games with toys during the bangs or immediately after them to help build positive associations.³

Relaxion techniques or gentle massage can also benefit many sound-sensitive dogs.³

Prescribed medications

If your dog is already showing signs of a noise phobia, there are short- and medium-term prescription options that can help.

Many caregivers feel apprehensive about giving their pet prescription medications for behavioural issues, but licensed treatments are generally safe and effective.^3,4 The goal isn’t to sedate your dog — but to reduce anxiety and improve quality of life.

Medications shouldn’t be a last resort when everything else fails. Instead of waiting until sound sensitivities worsen, beginning prescription medications earlier can not only enhance your pet’s quality of life now but may also support better long-term results.

The right choice of medication will depend on your dog’s individual medical history and how long they’ll need support. I recommend speaking to your primary care vet or your veterinary behaviourist well in advance of Bonfire Night.

Other treatment options- can they help?

There are many non-prescription products marketed for noise phobias. Some may help in mild cases, especially when combined with environmental changes. Some may also be used in conjunction with prescription medications.

These include:

Nutraceuticals such as alpha-casozepine, L-theanine, and L-tryptophan— found in over-the-counter calming tablets, capsules, or foods.

Plug-in diffusers, sprays, or gels—containing calming pheromones or herbal blends—are best placed near your pet’s safe haven.

Herbal, homoeopathic, aromatherapy, or CBD (cannabidiol) products—evidence is limited; always inform your vet before combining these with prescription treatments, as interactions may occur.

Wearable items, such as pressure vests or calming shirts— can assist some pets, but I rarely recommend them. Many dogs and cats dislike the sensation, and it’s essential to ensure your pet feels genuinely relaxed—not frozen with fear. If you do use them, introduce them gradually and in a positive manner.

Ear defenders or muffs can reduce exposure to loud noises, such as fireworks. However, their suitability depends on your dog’s head and ear shape, as with clothing items, a gentle and positive introduction is key.

What about cats?

Although research into behavioural treatments for noise phobias in cats is limited, many of the same strategies used for dogs can help support sound-sensitive felines.

With a keen sense of hearing, cats can also be negatively affected by sudden loud noises. However, cats often respond more subtly to frightening sounds, and many prefer to cope by hiding. Ensure your cat has several easily accessible hiding spots, including elevated ones, as many cats feel safer when up off the ground. Respect their need for space and refrain from disturbing them unless they seek your attention.

Wherever your cat decides to seek refuge during fireworks, ensure that essential resources such as food, water, and a litter tray are available in that room.

To help reduce exposure to triggering sounds and sights:

• Keep cats indoors after dark.
• Close all windows, doors, and curtains.
• Play white or brown noise to help mask sudden bangs.

Both prescribed medications and non-prescription options are available to help your cat cope with frightening noises. If you’re concerned, I recommend discussing them with your primary care vet or veterinary behaviourist.