Keep the Jumps and Jitters at bay this Bonfire Night

10th Oct 2008

Keep the Jumps and Jitters at bay this Bonfire Night

No one wants to spoil the party, but Bonfire Night isn’t fun for everyone. In fact it can be a really scary time for small pets. While we might like the occasional fright, for bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters and gerbils it can be quite dangerous, affecting sleep patterns, disturbing behaviour and sometimes setting tummies on edge.

To help your small animals, follow these few
useful hints and tips from Nick Thomas, resident expert on the
www.smallanimaladvice.com website and Pet Health and Nutrition advisor at Supreme Petfoods.

Safe and Sound
In the autumn, you may be moving your hutch inside anyway. It’s a good idea to do this in time for Bonfire Night. Adding rugs to the top of the hutch can help muffle the worst of the bangs and crashes. Also aim to keep out the flashes by covering cages or hutches short term, shutting doors or blocking windows

Distraction Techniques
At all times of year, it’s sensible to give your pet some toys and play things in their homes and runs. But it’s an especially good idea on Bonfire Night. Try something like Supreme’s Rip and Run burrows where they can safely hide and feel secure.

Comfort Eating
The first signs of stress can be changes in eating patterns so try to monitor your pet’s food and water intake over Bonfire Night. This is a good idea, anyway, as you can check if your pets regularly leaving any of its meal. A good food provides all the Recommended Daily Allowances required, but only if it is all eaten up on a regular basis. If you pet selects only some bits to eat, you may need to switch to a mono-component food like Supreme Science Selective to ensure the right balance of food is eaten daily.
 

Remember, if you are worried about your pet at all, always seek advice from a vet.