Halloween is a night of spooky fun, but for a cat, the flood of strange costumes and loud noises can be truly terrifying. While you and your family are enjoying the festivities, your feline companion, with their finely tuned instincts, may feel stressed and overwhelmed. A little preparation can make a huge difference in keeping your cat safe and secure, ensuring the tricks of the night don’t turn into a scary ordeal for your furry family member.
- Desensitize your cat to costumes ahead of time
To a cat, a familiar person in a costume can appear as a frightening intruder. Before Halloween night, let your cat see and sniff your costume. Place it on the floor for them to examine and become accustomed to. This allows them to investigate the “new and different” item in a safe, controlled way, so they know it’s not a threat. Take your time to re-introduce yourself in the costume so your cat feels comfortable with your disguised appearance.
- Create a calm “safe room”
With party guests or trick-or-treaters at the door, the noise and traffic can easily overwhelm a cat. Prepare a quiet, secure room far from the main entrance and festivities. Include their favorite bed, toys, litter box, and food. To give them an extra sense of security, place their carrier, with familiar bedding inside, in the room to serve as an additional haven. Securely close all windows and cover them to block out the sight of fireworks or flashes of light. Most importantly, post a clear, visible sign on the door: “PLEASE DO NOT LET THE CAT OUT.”
- Ensure your cat is microchipped
As guests and trick-or-treaters come and go, cats can get frightened and slip through an open door unnoticed. This is why microchipping is critical for all pets, even indoor-only cats. Be sure to register their microchip with a reliable database and keep your contact information up-to-date. If your cat escapes and is found by a rescue or vet, a quick scan can ensure they are returned safely to you. Studies have shown that microchipped cats are over 20 times more likely to be returned home than those without identification [1].
- Know the signs of feline stress
Understanding your cat’s body language is key to knowing when they’ve had enough. Look for signs like hiding, a crouched posture, flattened ears, or an anxious flicking tail. Respecting their need for space is the kindest way to include them on the holiday. By taking these simple steps, you can prevent a traumatic experience for your cat and help everyone have a happier, safer Halloween.
Happy Fall, y’all!
Dr. Kathryn Primm, CVPM, FFCP
Citation
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Vol. 235, No. 2, Pages 160–167, July 15, 2009.