Why are pets scared of fireworks?
Reported by Phys.org · October 15 at 5:40 PM · Summary by Pawdeck
An article from Nottingham Trent University explains why fireworks frighten pets, livestock and wildlife. Fireworks are unpredictable, loud and visually startling, and animals cannot understand why they happen. The piece offers a guide to supporting pets before, during and after firework season.
Background
Fireworks trigger a startle response, a sudden reflex where the body freezes and prepares for threat. Repeated, unpredictable bangs can lead to prolonged fear or phobia in dogs and cats, and some animals injure themselves trying to escape. Pets with pain from conditions such as arthritis may also react more strongly to loud sounds.
Why it matters
Fireworks can cause serious distress and injury to dogs and cats, and that risk often arrives on predictable holiday dates.
What you can do
Plan ahead by keeping your pet indoors in a quiet room during displays, and ask your veterinarian about options if your pet has shown noise fear before.
Written by Pawdeck from the report by Phys.org. Background is general information, not advice about your pet; if you are worried, call your vet.
For dogs
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