We love our cats because they are fiercely independent and have strong personalities of their own. Some cats are more tolerant than others, especially if they are younger kittens or more used to collars, harnesses, backpacks, or being handled. It’s important to remember that just because you think something will be fun doesn’t mean your cat will agree. No Halloween costume is worth stressing your pet or putting them in danger.
According to the ASPCA, wearing costumes may cause some animals undue stress. Before Halloween night, follow these tips to be sure your cat is safe in their costume and can enjoy the spooky fun without harm:
- Always try the costume on your cat before Halloween night so you can see how it fits and help your cat get used to it.
- Make sure your cat’s Halloween costume doesn’t limit their ability to see, eat, use the litter box, breathe, meow, or move.
- Check the costume for small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that could present a choking hazard. Remove before wear.
- Make sure the costume fits properly. Ill-fitting outfits can twist or slip and potentially endanger your kitty as she moves.
- Ensure that candle flames, wires, and candy are out of reach of your cat’s curious paws and mouth. This isn’t about your cat’s costume, but rather about your Halloween décor in general.
If you follow these tips and your cat still won’t agree to wear a Halloween costume, don’t despair. There’s still plenty of fun to be had. Consider your kitty your spooky sidekick and theme your own costume around them. Got an orange tabby that looks like a tiger? Maybe you’re an animal caretaker, a zookeeper, or a character from a popular story that includes a tiger. Are you the proud parent of a void kitty, all in black? Incorporate them into your witch, plague doctor, or vampire costume for Halloween fun.
Is your feline friend a calico or a black-and-white cow cat? Choose a farmer or milkmaid/milkman costume to work with your cat’s natural outfit’s color scheme. Got a gray kitty? Maybe they once were white and have traveled through the soot, just like you dressed as a chimney sweep. Tuxedo kitty? Complement them in your own black and white formal wear or perhaps dress as a penguin yourself! All white cat? That screams super villain or a villain parody. Go with it and pet your kitty and cackle.
You can always match your furry friend by dressing as a cat yourself, and bringing along your feline mini-me for Halloween fun.