How to keep your pets calm this Guy Fawkes

Mac and Jed model the Thundershirt that provides gentle, constant pressure and has a calming effect for most pets. Photo / Supplied

Pet owners should have their animals' beds ready for them inside ahead of Guy Fawkes celebrations next week.

Dr Jonathan Robinson, a vet affiliated with Animates, said the startling sights and sporadic bursts of sound that came with fireworks could be frightening for any animal so it was important to take some preventative measures.

"For example it's an animal's natural instinct to hide, so getting them inside and keeping them in is key," he said.

Dr Robinson said pet owners should feed their animals before the fireworks started, as a full stomach made them sleepy and could help them relax.

Owners should have their pets' beds and favourite toys ready for them inside and have pets inside with the curtains closed, before it got dark.

They should turn on some music or the television to disguise external noise, he said.

"For small pets or birds, partially cover their cages or enclosures with a blanket."

A range of products was available specifically designed to comfort pets during times of stress. The Thundershirt provided gentle, constant pressure that had a calming effect for most pets. Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats were pheromone products which help reduce stress.

BioPet Courage had been especially designed for pets troubled by loud noises.