Cats and their owners can safely enjoy Halloween with some advance planning and some common sense, says the American Humane Association. As you get ready for the festivities, keep these tips in mind.
Keep your cat safe inside. Make sure your cat is kept away from the door so it doesn’t escape when you disperse candy to trick-or-treaters.
Make sure your black cat is safe from harm. Halloween in particular can lead strange people to do strange things to black cats, AHA says. Children may even react to seeing a black cat by yelling or scaring the cat. Bring your black cat inside for the night and away from sight of the front door.
Resist the urge to dress your cat. If your pet is not used to wearing a costume, don’t force the issue. Avoid tying something around a cat’s neck, such as a cape or tie, as such an item could choke your pet, according to the AHA.
Make sure you pet has identification. With so much activity happening near your front door, your cat may slip outside. A collar and tag, or a microchip or tattoo, will help ensure your cat returns to you if she becomes lost, the AHA says.
Keep lit candles out of reach. Make sure your cat can’t knock over a lit candle or singe her fur.
Don’t treat your pet to candy. Chocolate and other sweets can make your cat sick and can be lethal in some cases, the AHA says.
For more Halloween safety tips, visit the American Humane Association website.