With Halloween comes trick-or-treating, costumes, and spooky parties! However, these festivities are not always safe or stress-free for our cats. Here are a few tips on how to keep your cat safe on Halloween!
1. Cat-proof your Halloween decorations
When you search for Halloween decorations for your home, take your cat's comfort and safety into account. For example, avoid small decorations that your cat can fit into their mouth. Also, instead of real candles, it's best to use battery-powered ones. This will prevent any fire hazards. In general, make sure to think about how your cat would react around the decorations that interest you to determine whether or not they are safe enough for your home. If you have snacks and candy, make sure that they are out of your cat's reach. It's dangerous for cats to ingest chocolate.
2. Don't force your cat to wear a Halloween costume
Always prioritize your cat's feelings and comfort. If your cat seems to be bothered by Halloween costumes, do not force them to wear one. If your cat doesn't mind wearing a costume, keep in mind that there are also more comfortable Halloween costume options out there. For example, find a breathable costume that doesn't look like it would be uncomfortable for your cat when they walk around the house or nap. You could also consider using a small accessory such as a collar instead of a full-on costume, for example.
3. Stay outdoors for trick-or-treating festivities
To avoid stressing out your cat with the sound of strangers knocking and ringing the doorbell, keep trick-or-treating festivities outdoors. There are a few ways to do this. If you have children, you can go out trick-or-treating together and keep the porch light off. This typically indicates to others that you are not giving out candy. You could also leave out candy with a sign instead. If you intend to stay at home and give out candy for Halloween, you can stay in front of the house with your door closed. This keeps your cat safe inside while you participate in the Halloween festivities.
4. Prepare a calm hangout spot for your cat
It's important for your cat to have a calm area where they can relax. Make sure to find an area in your house where they can stay away from Halloween activities and loud noises. If your cat is in another room, you can put some calm music in the background for them so that they can sleep and relax without feeling overwhelmed. Another way to keep your cat calm is by using calming products such as diffusers.
Also, it's best to find a high area that your cat can climb to. This will allow your cat to observe the room, hide, and feel safe.
If you have guests at your house celebrating Halloween with you, let them know that they shouldn't stress your cat by barging in on them. Wait for your cat to feel comfortable enough to come outside of the room when they want to. Always make sure that the room is accessible so that they have a place to hide when they would rather be alone.
5. Stick to your cat's usual habits as much as possible
Do your best to stick to your cat's usual schedule. If possible, try to feed your cat around the same. Also, make sure to clean their litter box like you usually do. If you don't intend on spending a lot of time with your cat on Halloween, make sure to prioritize playing with them and giving them affection before you leave or start focusing on Halloween activities.
Source: Alley Cat Allies, K&H Pet Products
