Bonfire Night can be one of the most traumatic times of the year for pets. Around 5,000 animals could be treated for firework related injuries this year and as well as the distress caused by these, they could also cost pet owners up to £1.6 million in vet fees.

David Pickett, pet insurance manager at Sainsbury’s Bank said: "Our research shows that during the course of a year, as many as 40% of pet owners will see their cats and dogs suffer from behavioural problems such as depression, moodiness, fatigue and loss of appetite. In some cases vets are prescribing sedatives for upset pets.

Last year the RSPCA received 848 firework-related calls. Of these, 324 were complaints, and 76 were about lost, found and rescued animals.

With Bonfire Night fast approaching the RSPCA predicts that pets and wildlife will suffer misery again. Sad cases are already emerging - Jack Russell Mabel recently died in a tragic incident after she bolted from the noise of fireworks and was hit by two cars in Newquay, Cornwall.

New RSPCA-commissioned research shows that a noise limit of 97 decibels (dBAI) should be set for fireworks available for private use by the public. This noise level, similar to that of a car door slamming, would help reduce the distress and suffering loud fireworks cause animals. The current noise limit is 120 decibels (dBAI) - equivalent to a jet aircraft taking off or a pneumatic drill being used one metre away.

A draft EU Directive is proposing that the noise limit of 120 decibels (dBAI) be implemented Europe-wide. This could prevent the UK government from setting its own lower noise limit in future, says the RSPCA who is campaigning for government to include a clause in the Directive allowing member states to set their own noise limits.

Protect your pets on Bonfire Night:

• If hosting a fireworks party at home, keep your pets indoors away from any fireworks and if possible in a room which is as far away from the noise as possible during the display, or perhaps, take them to a pet sitter
• If your pet is distressed by the noise be careful not to constantly cuddle or comfort them, as the sole means of reassurance as this could be seen as rewarding their fearful behaviour. Try to play with them as a distraction technique: buy a new toy or pet treats in advance of bonfire night. Reward them with pet treats when they settle down.

• Keep your cat indoors.
• Close all windows and curtains and switch on music or the television to drown out the noise.
• Leave your cat to take refuge in a corner if it wishes. Do not try to tempt it out as this could cause more stress.
• Make sure your cat is microchipped to ensure it can be returned to you if it escapes and becomes lost.

• Exercise your dog during the day.
• Never walk your dog while fireworks are being let off.
• As with cats, keep your dog indoors, close the curtains and play music to drown out the noise.
• Let your dog hide if it wants to take refuge under furniture or in a corner.
• Make sure your dog is wearing a collar and tag and is microchipped in case it bolts and becomes lost.

To further minimise distress, ask your vet about the Dog Appeasing Pheromone. It is a synthetic version of a chemical produced by a bitch shortly after she has given birth. The pheromone reassures newborn puppies and naturally calms them down. Scientists have discovered it also helps calm older dogs as well.

A simple plug-in diffuser that disperses the chemical into the room is available at some veterinary practices. It is safe and easy to use.

If your dog is particularly prone to becoming very distressed, discuss sedatives with your vet. Remember, these should be given before the firework noise begins to allow them to take effect.

Small animals

Small animals - such as rabbits and guinea pigs - living outside should not be forgotten. They can also become very stressed from loud noise. Bring small animals indoors or into an outhouse or garden shed to give them extra protection.

Horses

Horses often bolt from firework noise and become injured. Always make sure horses, ponies and donkeys are stabled while fireworks are being let off. Make sure fireworks are not in view by closing the stable door.

Bonfires

Bonfires can be fatal for wildlife such as hedgehogs, which often crawl in to them to sleep. Build bonfires as late as possible to reduce this risk and make sure you disturb the foundations of the bonfire to give any wildlife a chance to escape before it is lit.

Always clear up after a fireworks party - litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.