How to Pet-Proof Your Home for A Super Bowl Party

The Super Bowl is all about fun—food, drinks, friends, and nonstop action on the big screen. But if you have pets, game day can get a little chaotic. Dogs get excited. Cats get stressed. Snacks end up in places they shouldn’t. The last thing you want is an overturned snack table, a runaway pet, or worse—an emergency vet visit.

So before kickoff, take some time to pet-proof your home. Whether you have dogs, cats, or both, this guide will help you host a Super Bowl party that’s safe, stress-free, and still full of fun.

Step 1: Secure the Super Bowl Party Zone

A house full of people, loud cheering, and tempting smells can be overwhelming for pets. So, here’s how to keep the chaos under control:

Block Off No-Go Areas: Use baby gates or pet barriers to keep dogs out of the kitchen or away from food tables. For cats, keep doors closed to off-limits rooms, especially bedrooms where they might hide (or take revenge on your pillows).

Hide Breakables & Cords: Excited tails and curious paws can easily knock over drinks, decorations, or fragile items. Secure loose cords with cord protectors to prevent chewing.

Choose Pet-Safe Décor: Balloons, streamers, and confetti might look festive, but they can be choking hazards. Swap them for pet-friendly decorations like LED lights or themed pet bandanas.

Step 2: Set Up a Safe Space for Pets

Not all pets love social gatherings. Some may enjoy the attention, while others prefer peace and quiet. Create a designated safe space where they can relax if the party gets overwhelming.

For Dogs: Set up a cozy area with a bed, water bowl, and a favorite toy. If your pup gets anxious, calming treats or an anti-anxiety vest can help.

For Cats: Most cats will make themselves scarce, but a quiet room with a litter box, water, and a scratching post gives them a stress-free retreat. Also, a pheromone diffuser can help keep them calm.

Step 3: Keep the Snacks Pet-Safe

Super Bowl snacks are a big part of the fun, but many human foods can be dangerous for pets.

Dangerous Foods: Keep wings, guacamole, chocolate, and anything with onions or garlic out of reach. Even small amounts can be toxic.
Pet-Friendly Snacks: Set up a pet snack station with safe treats like plain, unseasoned chicken bites for dogs or freeze-dried fish for cats. You can even get Super Bowl-themed pet treats online.
No-Begging Rule: If your guests tend to sneak food to pets, consider giving pets their own special treat at the start of the party to keep them happy and distracted.

Step 4: Keep Doors & Windows Secure During Your Super Bowl Party

With guests coming and going, it’s easy for pets to slip out. That’s why you should prevent accidental escapes with these tips:

Use Baby Gates or Playpens: If your dog is a door-dasher, place a gate near the entryway to prevent sudden breakouts.

Check Windows & Screens: Cats might try to escape through open windows. Make sure screens are secure and windows aren’t left cracked open.

Microchip & ID Tags: If the worst happens and a pet does get out, a collar with an ID tag and an updated microchip can help them get home safely.

Step 5: Supervise Playtime & Guest Interactions

Not all pets love being the center of attention. Some guests may also not be familiar with pet behavior. Keep interactions safe with these tips:

Teach Kids Pet Etiquette: Remind young guests to approach pets gently and not chase them.

Watch for Stress Signals: Signs of stress in dogs include tucked tails, pinned ears, or excessive panting. Cats may flatten their ears, flick their tails, or try to escape. And overall, if a pet looks uncomfortable, give them space.

Rotate Toys to Avoid Fights: If multiple pets are present, provide separate toys to prevent resource guarding. Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys can also keep them occupied.

Step 6: Avoid Accidents But Be Prepared!

Let’s be honest, no matter how well you prepare, accidents happen. Whether it’s a knocked-over drink, an upset stomach, or an unexpected mess, here’s what to have on hand:

Pet-Safe Cleaning Wipes: Quickly clean up spills and muddy paw prints.

Stain & Odor Remover: A good enzyme-based cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle) helps with pet messes.

Extra Litter Box: If you have multiple cats, adding a second litter box in a quiet area can reduce stress during the party.

Poop Bags & Paper Towels: Keep them nearby for quick cleanups, especially if guests bring their dogs.

Step 7: Keep the Super Bowl Party Fun for Everyone

With a little planning, your Super Bowl party can be a blast for both humans and pets. Whether they’re lounging in a cozy corner, snacking on pet-friendly treats, or joining in on the fun, making sure they feel safe and comfortable will keep the night stress-free.

So before the game starts, double-check your pet-proofing, grab your snacks, and enjoy the biggest football event of the year!