The festival of Diwali is all about celebrating with enthusiasm. However, for pets and their owners, this can be a very stressful time, especially due to loud noise. For actor Nimrat Kaur, protecting her fur babies during this time is very important. “Not so fun fact: dogs and cats can hear 3 and 4 times louder than us humans (sic) respectively,” Kaur wrote while posting a photo with her cats, Kitkat and Karamchand on Instagram. Either way, it’s always best to prepare in advance. Ahead of the festival, an expert shares tips for managing your furry friends’ anxiety during this time.

SIGNS OF STRESS

It is essential to monitor your pet for any signs of stress. According to Delhi-based veterinarian Dr Vivek Arora, these signs include panting, pacing, hiding, whining, trembling or even trying to escape. Physical symptoms like increased heart rate or accidents outside the litter box can also indicate distress. “Treating these signs as early as possible ensures that your pet remains comfortable and safe,” he shares.

CREATE A SECURITY BUBBLE

Dr Arora points out that it is dangerous to take pets outside during Diwali due to the increased risk of injury, stress from loud noises and crowd chaos. He stresses that “the risk of losing your pet in the commotion is high” and that keeping them indoors is a much safer choice.

It is therefore essential to create a safe and comfortable space at home. Dr. Arora suggests preparing a quiet room, away from noise, with soft lighting, comfortable bedding and soothing music. “Reduce exterior views to reduce exposure to the visual effects of fireworks and try to keep the routine and environment as familiar as possible,” he says.

“Positive reinforcement, calming music, and pheromone plug-in devices can also help your pet stay relaxed,” he adds.

For animals sensitive to noise, it is essential to create a quiet environment. Dr. Arora suggests moving them to a comfortable room with calming tunes playing in the background. Pet parents can also use toys or treats as distractions. If necessary, a veterinarian can also recommend medication to help your pet cope with the stress of loud fireworks.

Dr. Arora recommends using calming treats or supplements, which contain natural ingredients like melatonin, chamomile, and valerian root. “Hemp oil is also a popular option. However, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new supplements,” he advises.

All About the Perfect Diwali Outfits for Pets

Gone are the days when pet fashion was limited to basic collars. Today, it’s all about making a statement with outfits that reflect the joy and vibrancy of the season. Paras Bhanushali and Megha Jain, founders of Papaw Cartel, point out, “Pets now play a special role at weddings and festivals. This has led to a rise in popularity of outfits like brocade koti kurtas, mirror sherwanis, cross-body cholis and Dil Rooba ghagra cholis.

A COMFORTABLE FIT

The emphasis on comfort is also important. The Papaw Cartel emphasizes that its designs are designed with the movement of pets in mind. “The important thing is to ensure utmost comfort in style, keeping in mind different breeds and sizes,” explain Bhanushali and Jain, adding, “Customization is the key to a comfortable fit. of breathable human-grade fabrics with a 100% cotton lining ensures that pets can move freely without any irritation.

SHERU KI SHERWANI

One of the hottest trends this Diwali is the classic Indian sherwani for dogs. These outfits often feature intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, making them perfect for special occasions.

“Along with sherwanis, pet owners are opting for kurtas, lehengas and even dhotis for their four-legged friends. These outfits are often adorned with festive designs, paisley patterns and gold accents, reflecting the aesthetic of human festive clothing,” says Jain.

For pet parents looking to adorn their four-legged companions with festive clothing, brands like PetsAway.in, The Papaw Cartel and FurrVanity.com are some of the many options.

A festive treat for your four-legged friend

While traditional treats and snacks are delicious for us during the holiday season, they may not be safe for our pets. Instead, opt for treats specially designed to keep them healthy and happy during the celebrations.

HOMEMADE DOLLS

“For dogs, homemade peanut butter and pumpkin cookies are a fantastic option. Both ingredients are not only safe, but also very nutritious, providing a perfect balance between taste and health. You can also try chewy sweet potatoes, which are easy to prepare and full of vitamins. Simply cook thin slices of sweet potato until they become soft and irresistible,” says veterinarian Dr Shreejan Singh.

“Cats, on the other hand, love fish-flavored treats. You can make tuna or salmon treats by cooking small pieces of fish with a pinch of catnip for extra fun. These are rich in protein and will make your feline purr with joy,” adds Dr. Singh.

GOURMET TREATS

As pet welfare becomes a major concern, there is a growing demand for dog-safe gourmet treats that reflect human enjoyment. Nayani Tandon, owner of Puppychino Bakery, shares, “There is a huge demand for festive treats that allow pets to join in the celebration. Pet parents want to give their dogs something that reflects the festival but is also completely safe. »

A major trend this year is Mithai-inspired pet treats. “We have seen huge interest in laddoo and peda boxes made with ingredients like pumpkin, coconut and blueberry,” shares Tandon. These pet-safe alternatives allow dogs to join in the Diwali fun without the risks posed by sugar or artificial additives.