The holidays are a wonderful time, full of travel, family gatherings, laughter and festive cheer. But for many pets, all this excitement, change and noise can quickly become overwhelming. Between road trips, houseguests, fireworks, loud music and disrupted routines, it’s easy to forget that while we enjoy the holiday buzz, our pets may be feeling anxious or stressed.
A little extra preparation can make a big difference in helping your furry companions stay calm, comfortable and safe during the festive season.
Why Holidays Can Stress Pets Out
- Noise and sudden sounds like fireworks, loud music and frequent doorbells can be frightening.
- Changes to routine, including new sleeping spots or unusual meal times.
- Crowds and unfamiliar guests moving through the home.
- Travel, new environments and unfamiliar smells.
What feels festive to us may feel chaotic to them, so awareness and planning go a long way.
Tips to Help Your Pet Stay Calm and Comfortable
1. Create a Safe Space at Home
Choose a quiet, comfortable corner or room where your pet can retreat if things get loud or busy. Add their bed or blanket, a favourite toy and soft lighting. For cats, high perches or cosy hiding spots work very well.
If you expect fireworks, keep windows closed and close curtains to soften the noise and flashes.
2. Use Background Sound to Reduce Stress
Soft music, white noise or a TV left on low volume can help mask sudden loud sounds and create a sense of consistency.
3. Try to Maintain Their Usual Routine
Regular mealtimes, walks and play sessions help your pet feel grounded. Even if you are travelling or hosting guests, keeping things predictable gives them reassurance.
4. Offer Distractions With Toys and Enrichment
Chew toys, long-lasting treats, puzzle feeders and interactive toys help relieve stress and redirect energy. Cats benefit from wand toys, tunnels and climbing spaces.
5. Prepare Before Travelling
Bring your pet’s familiar blanket, toys, food and water. Familiar scents make new environments less stressful.
Use a secure carrier for cats or small pets, and a travel harness or crate for dogs. Make sure the travel space is stable, safe and well ventilated.
6. Consider Calming Aids and Support Products
For pets that are more anxious, calming wraps, pheromone diffusers, sprays and calming beds can help them feel more secure. These are especially useful during fireworks or busy gatherings.
Always check with your vet before using calming supplements or medications.
7. Stay Calm Yourself
Pets pick up on our emotions. Speaking softly, moving calmly and offering reassurance helps your pet feel safe even in busy environments.
Helpful Products From Canine & Co
Here are some product types on Canine & Co that can support a calmer festive season:
- Pheromone diffusers and sprays
- Comfortable travel carriers or crates
- Calming beds and blankets
- Puzzle feeders and enrichment toys
- Travel bowls, water bottles and portable feeding gear
The festive season is full of joy, but it can also be overwhelming for our pets. With a bit of planning, a calm environment, supportive products and plenty of understanding, your pets can enjoy the holidays just as much as you do.
Wishing you a peaceful, safe and pet-friendly festive season filled with wagging tails and happy purrs.
