Tips for Cats at Halloween

Halloween is an interesting holiday. Also known as All Hallows’ Eve, it is a celebration observed in a number of countries on 31 October (the eve of All Hallows’ Day or All Saint’s Day). Halloween has evolved to include any number of local traditions that many may not even be familiar with. Regardless of your traditions, there seems to be one common truth about Halloween: It can be a dangerous time for cats. For a more comprehensive guide on pet safety during this holiday, check out our article on 5 Halloween Reminders to Keep Your Pets Safe!

Fortunately, with adequate knowledge of the dangers, you can make sure you and your cat have a safe and happy Halloween night. Here are some reminders for protecting your cat from things that go bump in the night:

1. Keep your cat inside.

My advice is always to keep your cats indoors, but this is especially important on Halloween night. Unfortunately, not all Halloween activities are positive, and cats are especially associated with superstition. Don’t take any chances, keep kitty safe at home. Remember that if a frightening group of visitors appear, the cat may bolt through an open door or become hysterical and react aggressively. It’s a good idea to keep your cat behind a closed door.

2. Most cats don’t like parties.

Having guests over? Cats are not well known for their love of parties. Most are generally reserved, timid and startle easily. Make sure your cat has a private and quiet room to escape into before any guests arrive. If your cat shows signs of extreme stress or anxiety during social gatherings, consider our Veterinary Behavior Counseling service for personalized advice on managing your cat’s stress levels.

3. Most cats don’t like wearing costumes.

There are, of course, exceptions, and yes cats in costumes are extremely cute. Just make sure you’re reading your cat’s signs though. If your cat is hissing, running or hiding when you try and put the cape on, then she is not interested in dressing up. (Editor’s Note: Here you can check out some pets that do enjoy their costumes, with adorable results.)

4. Most cats do like chewing on costumes.

If you like to make costumes, be sure that shiny strings and cords are not feline accessible. Cats may swallow strings and can then develop intestinal obstructions.

5. Keep your cat away from candles.

One traditional decoration for the evening is candles (either in a pumpkin or on a table). A panicked cat can tip over these candles with potentially devastating consequences. Make sure there is no way your cat can tip a candle and start a fire or harm themselves.

Contact us, your local animal hospital in Cavan Monaghan, ON!