Firework night is approaching which is usually an exciting time for humans but less so for our beloved pets. Unlike us, animals have no way of knowing what the noise and bright lights really are, which creates a high-stress situation and leads to a range of negative behaviours.

Calming products can really help, both in the build-up to firework season and during it. But with so many on the market, how do we know which to go for? Do we choose a room diffuser over a collar, or would a calming supplement be better? In fact, you don't necessarily have to make that choice, as you can give multiple products in combination - including diffusers like Adaptil and Pet Remedy - providing they contain different ingredients that work in different ways.

Supplements:

Available in tablet, chew and liquid forms, calming supplements can be added to food or hidden in treats, and tend to work most effectively when used in combination with other calming solutions, such as room diffusers. You can shop our full range here, or give our recommended supplements a try.

SettleMe is our own brand calming support range, including tasty chews, easy to hide capsules and a liquid (perfect for fussy cats!). These contain a blend of ingredients believed to be helpful in supporting calm behaviour and reducing anxiety, stress-related behaviours and over-activity in pets. Can either be fed directly or added to food for ease.

Zylkene is a natural product for dogs, cats and horses that contains a special milk protein to induce calmness. Ideally, Zylkene should be given once daily for a few days before and on the day of a firework display.

Dorwest Skullcap and Valerian tablets are a herbal remedy developed to help relieve stress in cats and dogs. When used in conjunction with Dorwest Organic Valerian Compound during firework season, this is an effective, non-drowsy solution that is easy to administer or hide in food.

Diffusers & Sprays:

These can either be natural and herbal, or pheromone-based. Pheromones are feel-good chemicals produced naturally by our pets. Pheromone-based calming products replicate and release these feel-good chemicals to keep pets feeling calm and content. When sensed by your cat or dog, they can alter mood and help reduce stress and nervousness.

Feliway is made up of a synthetic copy of the pheromone that cats use to mark objects. Simply plug in the diffuser or spritz the spray around the rooms your cat visits most and see the results for yourself.

Adaptil is a similar product but for dogs. It consists of a synthetic copy of the mothering pheromones released by bitches to calm and reassure their puppies. Not only is adaptil available as a diffuser (refills available) and spray, but you can now buy the collar and stress-relief tablets. Sometimes combining the products has the most marked effect.

Pet Remedy offers a natural calming diffuser and spray for cats, dogs, small animals and horses. Combining essential oils to calm the nerves of stressed pets, Pet Remedy products can either be used on-the-go or in the home.

Collars & Jackets:

These alternative calming solutions are great if you feel your pet needs a little extra support. Their effectiveness when used exclusively will vary from pet to pet, so it is worthwhile using them in combination with other methods.

Adaptil Collars release dog-appeasing pheromone constantly, helping to keep your dog calm. Easy to use at home or on-the-go, each collar lasts for up to 4 weeks, making them perfect for pre-firework season as well as during.

Thundershirt's gentle, constant pressure can have a profound calming effect on anxious, fearful or over-excited dogs when worn during a stressful event. The adjustable design makes it suitable for most dogs, with a range of sizes available.

Hopefully now you have a good understanding of the types of calmers available and how they can help your pets cope through the stressful times ahead, especially when used in combination. For a more comprehensive insight into tackling firework fear, have a read of our Knowledgebase article ‘Keep your pets (big or small) happy during fireworks!’ Feel free to get in touch for more info and if you have any advice, please comment below and share it with our other readers! [email protected]

Written by: Hannah