Fear of sounds in dogs and cats: how to help your pet

Many owners notice that their dogs or cats are afraid of loud noises. Fireworks, thunder, construction noise, gunshots, sirens, or even household appliances can cause severe anxiety in animals. This fear is quite common, but it is important to know how to respond correctly so as not to increase stress and to help your pet cope with it.

Why are animals afraid of loud noises?

The causes of fear can vary, and they often combine with each other:

▫️Natural instinct. In the wild, loud noises are associated with danger.
▫️Keen hearing. Dogs and cats perceive a much wider range of sounds than humans and hear them much louder.
▫️Negative experience. If an animal has been severely frightened at some point (for example, during fireworks or a thunderstorm), the fear may become ingrained.
▫️Lack of habituation at an early age. If an animal has not been exposed to different sounds during socialization, the reaction may be much stronger in adulthood.

How does fear of sounds manifest itself?

In dogs:

▫️trembling, tucking the tail;
▫️seeking shelter or attempting to flee;
▫️drooling, salivation;
▫️refusal to eat or drink.

In cats:

▫️abrupt escape and hiding;
▫️dilated pupils;
▫️aggression in response to attempts at contact;
▫️persistent refusal to come out of hiding.

In severe cases:

▫️injuries sustained during escape attempts;
▫️development of persistent behavioral disorders;
▫️chronic stress.

How to help an animal during loud noises?

1. Create a safe place

Give the animal a place to hide: a small house, a carrier, a cozy corner, or a separate room.

2. Do not punish or ridicule

Fear is a stress response, not "bad behavior." Punishment will only increase anxiety.

3. Be there, but don't force contact

Your presence is important, but don't force the animal to sit on your lap if it doesn't want to.

4. Use background sound

Calm music or the TV can help drown out loud outside noises.

5. Gradual habituation (desensitization)

You can train your pet in advance by playing sounds at low volume and combining them with treats or games.

6. Pheromones and special agents

There are diffusers and sprays with pheromones for dogs and cats that help reduce anxiety levels.

7. Medication support

In difficult cases, a veterinarian may prescribe sedatives or tranquilizers.❗ It is dangerous to administer such drugs on your own.

What should you not do?

❌ Do not leave your pet alone during loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms, air raid sirens).
❌ Do not force your pet to "get used" to noise.
❌ Do not shout or try to "break" your pet's fear with punishment.

Conclusion

Fear of loud noises in dogs and cats is a common problem that can significantly affect an animal's quality of life. The owner's task is to create a sense of security, support their pet, and gradually teach them to cope with stress.

If the fear is severe, recurrent, or interferes with daily life, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian or animal behavior specialist. Timely assistance can significantly improve your pet's condition and well-being.