The slew of guests, fireworks, and festivities of the New Year may be exciting for humans, but it might be a different story for dogs and cats. Holiday-related activities may cause stress. And the biggest risk to pets during New Year's Eve? They may escape and get lost due to severe anxiety.
In this complete guide, we've put together vital tips on how to have a safe New Year's Eve - and in particular, prevent cat and dog fireworks anxiety.
Why are Dogs & Cats Scared on New Years?
Fireworks are a particular source of cat and dog anxiety or fear that pet parents should keep in mind. Loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks can be frightening and overwhelming for both dogs and cats.
Though fireworks scare dogs and cats during New Year's Eve, cat or dog fireworks anxiety is not the only thing to keep in mind.
Dogs and cats can be stressed out by other elements of New Year's Eve festivities, such as:
Unfamiliar decorations
Loud music
Unfamiliar guests
Small children playing
Sparklers & party poppers
Popping champagne bottles
Party events & commotions
Signs of Dog & Cat Anxiety During NYE
A. Dog Fireworks Anxiety or General Anxiety During New Year
So how exactly does one recognize dog fireworks anxiety or dog anxiety in general? Here are a few signs to look out for:
Cowering
Hiding or seeking shelter in an enclosed space
Urinating inside the house
Panting or pacing
Barking or whining
Trembling or shaking
Restlessness and being more alert than normal
Seeking attention or reassurance
Scratching at the floor
Licking their lips or yawning
B. Cat Fireworks Anxiety or General Anxiety During New Year
To the untrained eye, many cats seem unfazed by fireworks and festivities. So if you're wondering whether or not your cat is actually afraid, look for the following behavioral clues regarding cat anxiety:
Hiding or seeking shelter in an enclosed space
Increased aggression or decreased tolerance
Dilated pupils (even if the cat is in a well-lit area)
Flat or sideways ears
Crouching or walking uncharacteristically closer to the ground
Trying to escape
How Do I Keep my Dog Calm in New Year?: Ways to Prevent Dog Anxiety
1. Establish a Safe Space
Provide a crate or a quiet room where your dog can retreat to if they are feeling anxious. This can help your canine companion feel safe if the festivities get too much.
Here are some rules and tips about establishing this doggy den:
Keep the den away from the hustle and bustle
Do not intrude into the dog's safe space (and instruct your guests to do the same)
Place familiar items, food, and bed sheets to help your dog feel safe
2. Play White Noise
White noise helps to drown out the sound of the fireworks and make your dog feel more at ease.
3. Give Your Dog Exercise Before New Year's Eve
Try giving your dog some exercise before the fireworks start: Taking your dog for a walk or run before New Year's Eve will tire them out and thereby reduce their anxiety.
4. Relax
One of the ways to help dogs calm down is to also be at ease. Dogs can recognize human verbal and nonverbal cues. This means that if a pet parent is agitated about their dog's wellbeing on New Year's Eve, this may unintentionally cause the dog to feel more fearful.
5. Added Precautions for the New Year
Never leave your dog outside unattended during New Year's Eve. It is also important to make sure that your dog is wearing identification tags in case they manage to escape and get lost.
6. Dog Anxiety Aids
Anxiety aids like ThunderShirts and anxiety medication for dogs can help pets with severe anxiety. A thunder shirt helps reduce your dog's anxiety by providing a sense of pressure and security. And if you're wondering if you need dog medication for anxiety, reach out to the Sploot team!
