Fighting like cats & dogs put on hold

Cat and dog owners aren't known for seeing things eye to eye, but when it comes to the first week in November, past differences are being put aside.

According to Petplan's pet census, almost eight in ten of all cat (79%) and dog (79%) owners think that all loud fireworks should be banned, and they are supported by the same number of vets (80%) who participated in the Petplan Census.

Petplan Vet of the Year Brian Faulkner explains, "Injuries to pets due to fireworks are usually caused as a result of them fleeing in fear of the loud bangs and flashes. I once treated a Staffordshire Bull Terrier that bolted across a road when a firework exploded and was hit by a car. Luckily he survived the collision, although he did suffer a dislocated hip and a shattered leg.

It is not uncommon for cats to go missing at this time of year also as they try to get away from the noise."

The impact of fireworks is so alarming for some pets, that in the survey almost half of the cat (45%) and dog (53%) owners who responded, supported by 44 per cent of vets, called for a total ban on fireworks.

Margaret Littlewood supports a total ban following the distressing experiences of her dog, Tramp, who became stuck behind the toilet when trying to hide from noisy fireworks. Margaret said: "Unfortunately, Tramp is no longer with us but I used to absolutely dread this time of year. One year there were a lot of fireworks nearby and in a panic, Tramp sought refuge behind the toilet. For a while I thought he might be stuck but when we eventually coaxed him out he was shaking horribly. To make matters worse, another firework went off and he ran and hid in my wardrobe - it was terribly upsetting."

So what can you do to keep your pets safe this time of year? Petplan have drawn up a list of tips to keep your furry friends calm during all the commotion outside.

Dogs and cats

Keep your cat or dog inside, and keep all windows, curtains and doors closed so they cannot escape and run off.
Turn on the TV or some music to drown out some of the firework noise
Provide your cat with a litter tray if he or she is used to being able to get into the garden
Make sure your pet is wearing a form of identification. If they manage to escape, you can be easily contacted when your pet is found. Ensure that any cat collars are safety collars so they don't hurt themselves if they get caught on other objects
Take your dog for a walk during daylight, as fireworks are less likely to be let off
Avoid leaving your pets alone - they will feel safer with you around
Stay calm and act normally. This will your pet feel safer and lets them know there is nothing to fear

For rabbits and other small animals

Bring their hutch or cage inside to a quiet room, garage or shed
If you cannot move it, turn it away from the open garden to face the house
Cover it with thick blankets or a quilt so your pet isn't able to see the flashes
Provide your pet with extra bedding so they can hide away