Cats Costume
Do your cats enjoy Halloween Very likely not! Halloween is not a good time for your cat for many reasons. The door bell is jarring for your cat when it rings just once. But on Halloween, it rings constantly. This will tend to cause your cats to be constantly running and hiding. Cats are very sensitive to noise and loud noises upset them. Then when you open the door, there is the noise and activity of reveling figures in strange clothing approaching the cats domain.
Of course, there will be lots of candy is around. Your cat will want to inspect those small objects for play or chewing. The smell of chocolate will make them want to wrap their kitty lips around the delicacy. Big problem is that chocolate can kill your cat. But that is not all. The foil and cellophane wrappings will entice them to chew. However, the wrappings can choke them or get caught in their gut causing an obstruction.
You can do your feline companions a large favor by securing them a distant room with some masking noise and closed drapes or shades so they cannot see out the windows. This way they will be less disturbed by the sights and sounds and safe from the human yummies. Halloween can cause some cats to become so distressed that they try to escape from the house which can be an unsafe move for them. Cats are often the targets of harm on Halloween, and this is especially true of black cats who have become negatively associated with evil, black magic, witches, ghoulies, and goblins on this holiday.
Part of keeping your cat less stressed on October 31 is NOT putting your feline companion in a costume. They look so cute and you will want to take pictures to show off them to show everyone. But your cat really does not want to do it, even if they seem laid back about it. First, the costumes are undignified and embarrassing. But more importantly, they are uncomfortable and can potentially impede your cat s breathing, swallowing, seeing, walking, and getting entangled in it as it tries to remove it.
If you have a house party, you need to remember that the same points apply. The only difference is that everything will be louder from the cats point of view. Moreover, you will be more likely to want to show off your costumed kitty to party-goers: “Aw, isnt that cute! Wheres my camera ” It is better you put your little love in a sound-proof, windowless, “padded cell” with its necessities and some kitty treats until the festivities are over.
Note: Dog companions need to heed these suggestions as well. When out, keep your pooch on a short leash, allow no rummaging on the ground, and no costume other than a loose, colorful neck bandanna. Also “No Candy”: Chocolate is toxic to dogs too and candy artificially sweetened with xylitol is potentially lethal. Hard candies can cause choking and are bad for their teeth.
So while you enjoy your Halloween, do not invite your cat to be a part of the festivities. Your cat will be grateful for your thoughtful consideration of its sensitivities and concern for its safety.
