How to Keep Your Pet Safe and Calm During Severe Weather
Tips on how to prepare dogs, cats, and small pets for thunderstorms, reducing stress and anxiety, and creating a safe environment during storms
Thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rain, and hail can be highly stressful for many companion animals. Dogs, cats, and small pets often react sensitively to loud noises, flashes of lightning, vibrations, and sudden changes in weather conditions. While some animals remain relatively calm, others may develop severe fear responses that can escalate into panic. With the right preparation and a calm, supportive approach, pet owners can help their animals cope with these situations more successfully.
How to prepare your pet for a storm
Preparing in advance: what matters before the storm
As soon as severe weather is forecast, pet owners should begin preparing. Some animals may show signs of restlessness or anxiety before a thunderstorm arrives, and these changes in behaviour should be taken seriously.
Dogs should be exercised and given the opportunity to relieve themselves before the storm. Windows, doors, dog and cat flaps, and shutters, blinds, or curtains should be closed to reduce exposure to loud wind, lightning flashes, and other external stimuli. This can also help prevent frightened pets from escaping.
Everything around your pet's living environment should be secured before the storm. Loose objects on balconies, patios, and in gardens can become noisy or hazardous in strong winds. Pets should have continued access to familiar hiding places. If needed, a quiet, sheltered area such as a bathroom, basement room, covered crate, or sleeping box can be provided. Familiar toys, treats, and enrichment activities may also be prepared in advance.
If your pet is already known to react strongly to thunderstorms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian well before severe weather occurs. Any recommended supportive measures or medications should be readily available when needed.
The right safe haven: security instead of force
An appropriate safe space for pets during a storm should be quiet, comfortable, sheltered, and free from excessive stimulation. Many animals choose their own hiding places. Cats may hide in enclosed beds or caves, under sofas or beds, or behind furniture, while dogs may prefer their crate or a quiet corner, such as under a table.
These hiding places should remain accessible, allowing pets to choose where they feel safest. Pets should never be forced into a specific location or confined against their will, as pressure and coercion can increase stress and affect their trust in their owner.
The owner’s role is to provide a safe environment and remain nearby if support is needed.
Offer comfort and stay calm
During severe weather, the presence of familiar people can be reassuring for many companion animals. Fear is not misbehaviour or unwanted behaviour; it is an emotional response to a situation the animal perceives as threatening.
If a pet seeks physical contact, gentle petting and calm verbal reassurance may help. Other animals may prefer to be left alone and retreat to their chosen safe space. This preference should be respected.
The owner’s own behaviour is also important. Remaining calm and relaxed can help communicate a sense of safety to the animal. In contrast, excessive comforting, frantic behaviour, or visible nervousness may increase the pet’s uncertainty and anxiety.
Common mistakes pet owners should avoid
An anxious or frightened pet needs understanding and support. Pets should never be punished or scolded for showing fear, nor should they be left alone or ignored when experiencing a situation they perceive as threatening.
Pressure and coercion should also be avoided. Pets should not be restrained when they want to retreat, and their safe spaces should always remain accessible. These familiar areas can provide a sense of security and comfort during severe weather and storm anxiety.
Never leave a frightened pet unattended outdoors. Fear can trigger escape attempts, putting the animal and others at risk.
Microchip your pets
Make sure your dog or cat is microchipped and registered. If they escape during a storm, this can help you reunite quickly
Special considerations for dogs, cats, and small pets
Dogs
Cats
Small pets
How to protect your smaller pets during severe weather
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals kept outdoors year-round need extra protection when severe weather is forecast. Outdoor enclosures should provide adequate shelter from wind, rain, hail, and flooding.
If adequate protection cannot be provided, move the animals to a safe indoor location, such as a garage, shed, or inside the home, before the storm arrives. Do not wait until severe weather is underway, as moving animals during an active thunderstorm can cause additional stress.
Long-term support for your pet's storm anxiety
If a pet experiences severe fear or panic during most thunderstorms, professional support should be sought. Veterinarians and veterinary behaviourists can help identify possible causes and recommend appropriate treatment.
Desensitisation and counterconditioning can be effective for long-term management of storm and noise-related anxiety. These methods gradually expose pets to storm sounds at a low volume while pairing them with positive experiences such as food, play, or relaxation.
Depending on the pet and severity of the anxiety, additional measures such as pheromone products, anxiety vests, Tellington body wraps, or calming scents may also help. Each method should be assessed individually, as pets can respond differently to these approaches.
Distraction can help with mild to moderate anxiety
For pets experiencing mild to moderate anxiety, activities such as nose work, chew treats, lick mats, or high-value rewards may provide positive distraction. However, these strategies are less effective once fear becomes overwhelming, as severely stressed or panicked pets may be unable to eat or engage in activities they normally enjoy.
Background sounds, such as relaxing music, radio, or television, may also help mask sudden storm noises such as thunder. Closing shutters and curtains can further reduce visual stimuli, including flashes of lightning.
Conclusion
Thunderstorms and severe weather events can be a significant source of stress for many companion animals. However, with thoughtful preparation, secure retreat spaces, and calm, supportive guidance, pet owners can make a meaningful difference in helping their pets cope. By recognizing and respecting each animal's individual needs and seeking professional help when fear becomes severe, owners can create the best possible conditions for a calmer and more manageable experience during future storms.
Disclaimer: All our guides are based on scientifically grounded research, current studies, and the expertise of FOUR PAWS experts. If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with our experts, please contact us at research.info@four-paws.org.
